CRM & Sphere of Influence
Today’s Objective: Understand the power of your database and your relationships. Then compile your database and get you familiarized with using a CRM system.
CRM = Customer Relationship Management
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE = A group of people you have some influence on because they know you. Family, friends, previous/current colleagues, former classmates, church/organization/activity mates, etc.
Your sphere/database is your business lifeline. A CRM system is a tool to use to manage your database and effectively market to it. Never stop feeding your database because you don’t want to starve your business.
In other words, managing your database needs to be a top priority. When someone in your sphere thinks “real estate” they should think of you.
Did you know… 70% of buyers can’t remember the name of their real estate agent one year later. Yikes! By starting early, putting a good CRM system in place, and creating a plan of attack, you can manage your sphere and stay top of mind.
This is why we’re starting your Action Plan by setting up your CRM system in the beginning.
Database Compiling:
When compiling your database, think outside the box. Your sphere is larger than you think – don’t be afraid to include everyone. You already know who the core of your sphere is – close friends, family, co-workers, people you see on a regular basis. But anyone you write a check to or anyone who’s done business with you is also a candidate.
Your list should include:
- Family
- Extended Family
- Friends
- Your neighbors or HOA members
- Your Parents’ Friends
- Former Classmates
- Former Sports Teammates
- Current Teammates or Activity Partners
- Current Co-workers
- Past Co-workers
- Church Members
- Organization or Club Members
- Beauty providers (your hairdresser, manicurist, etc)
- Your health care providers (doctor, dentist, optometrist, etc)
- Other providers (auto repair go-to person, accountant, dog groomer, etc)
Do you have a spouse/significant other? Include everyone you know through your spouse:
- Spouse’s friends
- Spouse’s co-workers
- Spouse’s extended family
Do you have children? If so, include:
- Children’s teachers, coaches, principal
- PTA members
- Children’s friends’ parents or your children’s friends (if your kids are grown)
Start with your phone contacts, your Facebook friends (a lot of people have their contact info listed too) and your LinkedIn connections. For more ideas, see the Memory Jogger list in the Resources below.
Action Items:
- Create your database
- First, write a list of EVERYONE you know.
- Second, start compiling contact information and birthdays. Use the attached excel sheet to do so (ignore the “Category” header, you will use this tomorrow).
- Even if you don’t currently have all of someone’s contact info, or even if you don’t have any of their info, KEEP THEM ON YOUR LIST. If you know you’re going to see them somewhere, you can bring them a handwritten note, or message them on Facebook. Plus, you can always search Google or Facebook for that person to try to find their contact info.
Resources:
MEMORY JOGGER – TO HELP WITH COMPILING YOUR SPHERE
WHO IS MY SPHERE OF INFLUENCE?