How To Stand Out From The Noise On Instagram
Dec 17, 2018
10 min read
Table of contents
Instagram is undoubtedly the most prominent social media platform out there and is on its way to close the gap with its parent company Facebook - which currently boasts 2.2 billion monthly active users.
Instagram is huge! With 1 billion monthly active users and more than 8 million brands present on the platform collectively sharing more than 40 million pictures on an average day, standing out from the crowd can become a bit difficult if you are actively marketing yourself on the platform organically or inorganically.
Yes, building a highly engaged following on the platform is hard but it’s certainly not impossible. If you are maintaining a presence on the platform and are seeing little to no results or are just starting out from scratch, the tips I’m about to tell you will help you stand out on Instagram and build a highly engaged following for your Instagram business or personal account -
Create a profile and optimize
Creating a profile on the platform is easy but you’ll have to choose if you want to create a personal profile or a business profile. The reason I’m mentioning it is that if you create a business profile, you’ll get additional analytics for your each and every post made on the platform. While you can choose to create a personal profile as well, going for a business profile will always be beneficial if you are looking to establish yourself strongly on the platform. Data always helps. Optimizing your business profile on the platform is easy! Just focus on providing as much information to your audience (in about 200 words) about yourself in your profile bio. And don’t forget to add your website link and contact information so users can easily give you a call when they feel like it! If you’re going for a personal profile, make sure it’s not set to private by checking it’s settings.
The kind of images you upload matters
Instagram is a highly visual image sharing platform in nature, so it makes sense to upload only your best on the platform. So, focus on uploading only high-quality images on Instagram that are high on aesthetics and visual appeal.
You can also upload videos on the platform, they receive a ton of engagement as well. But, on Instagram, images are the king and receive the most engagement. Try keeping a unique theme in all your pics and keep it consistent to stand out.
Don’t waste that caption space
Talking about posting images, with each image you post, Instagram allows you to add a 2200 words caption than you can make use of to tell your audience a story to add more depth to your pictures, add relevant hashtags or tag other people, but do make good use of all that space. 
National Geographic, which is currently the most followed brand on the visual platform, does it perfectly by adding a lot of depth to all their images by adding heart-warming and witty captions that keep their ever-increasing fans wanting for more.
Use stories, hashtags, and other Instagram marketing features
Like Snapchat, you can create stories on Instagram to get in front of your audience with the help of a colorful circle which appears at the top of news feed. Also, you can make use of relevant #hashtags on the platform to get seen by an audience browsing through that specific hashtag and gain exposure. Or you can make use of Live Video on the platform for instant engagement as each time you start a LIve Video on your profile, all your followers will receive a push notification about it.
You can use the platform to market yourself in various ways, make sure you know all about their nitty-gritty marketing features that let creators on the platform get really creative. I would suggest you to keep a close look at Instagram Press to stay abreast with all their upcoming features and latest updates.
Keep your audience interested
Keeping your audience interested on Instagram by uploading engaging posts every now and then is of utmost importance. Only when you are actively working on engaging your audience and post consistently, you’ll be able to pave way for new audiences to find and follow you.
So, post consistently, engage with your audience by regularly replying to their comments, share their images and get involved in the community to build a solid fan base on the platform.
Spend some money
If you want to gain quick exposure and build a solid fan base on the platform, going the paid way is always an option. You can make use of Instagram’s in-feed ads to get your message across to a ton of targeted users depending on your budget. Instagram provides you the functionality of displaying photo, video, carousel, stories and collection ads to fulfill all kinds of your business objectives.
While you get an option to promote your each and every post, you’ll have to use Facebook Ads Manager to set-up, optimize and target all your paid marketing campaigns on the platform. If you've never done paid marketing on the platform, don't worry we can help you with setting it all up.
Use the above-mentioned methods to convert your Instagram presence from NOT to HOT!. While there are many other ways you can use to gain exposure on the platform, the ways I mentioned above will surely help you gain a lot of traction on the platform. If there are other great ways to build a solid fan base on Instagram that may have helped your or someone’s else business take off on the platform, do let us know in the comments.
What is a Fractional CMO? Tips to hire a Fractional CMO
A Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) is essential to driving growth and maintaining a competitive edge within the ever-changing business world. However, many organizations cannot afford the luxury of hiring a full-time, on-site CMO. This is where fractional CMOs emerge as invaluable assets, serving as seasoned B2B marketing executives who provide flexible and cost-effective solutions for organizations seeking to enhance their advertising and B2B SaaS marketing strategies. Fractional CMOs provide a solution since they provide a plethora of experience and expertise without the high cost of a permanent C-stage government position. When considering a fractional CMO, it is crucial for businesses to pose insightful CMO interview questions to evaluate their ability to improve the company's marketing strategies. How do they approach the unique challenges of B2B marketing in a constantly changing marketplace? This blog aims to explore the significance of Fractional CMOs, assess whether your company requires the services of a fractional CMO, and provide guidance on hiring one. Understanding Fractional CMOs A fractional chief marketing officer (CMO) acts as an external advertising agency, operating at the C-level without the full-time hiring commitment. To help agencies traverse the dynamic world of strategic logo control, client interaction, and average marketing management, this strategic function is intended to give them on-demand access to top-notch advertising and marketing knowledge. As indicated by a study conducted, Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) are not only tasked with traditional marketing duties but are also entrusted with a more extensive role. They are expected to play a pivotal role in formulating growth strategies and contributing to revenue generation. A fractional CMO is critical in driving growth, ensuring an aggressive position in the SaaS market, and coordinating advertising and SaaS marketing initiatives with larger company aims. A fractional CMO's responsibilities are varied and represent a thorough and systematic approach to advertising management. They include: Team leadership includes managing and supervising marketing and advertising teams, encouraging teamwork, and ensuring coherent strategies are carried out. Strategic planning involves creating and implementing all-encompassing advertising strategies that align with company goals and consumer trends. Developing and improving internet optimization, social media, and digital advertising tactics to adorn the agency's online presence. Creating activities to maintain and grow customer connections, encouraging satisfaction and loyalty. A crucial responsibility is to make a strong case for potential investors by preparing advertising and marketing materials and tactics before financing rounds. Managing the hiring and onboarding procedures for recently hired marketing team members to maintain a unified and competent staff. Showing a dedication to providing a quantifiable return on investment, assessing the success of marketing campaigns, and implementing data-driven improvements for ongoing progress. The Working Dynamics: Why Fractional CMOs Work The function of a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) arises as a strategic option that combines adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and seasoned expertise. Fractional CMOs operate as dynamic catalysts for organizations navigating development, providing an immediate injection of leadership without the commitment of a full-time hire. The success of this version is dependent on the complicated combination of enjoyment, financial efficiency, and the ability to deal with the challenging conditions that come with increasing operations. Experience is Important: There is a lot of delight in the Fractional CMO's effectiveness. These experts are seasoned professionals who have successfully guided organizations through the obstacles of various boom stages. Their extensive song catalog prepares them to handle unpredictable scenarios gracefully, specializing in producing practical results. This fun-driven method elevates Fractional CMOs to vital members, giving valuable insights and strategic guidance for expanding firms seeking long-term success. Cost-Effective Solution: The financial benefits of working with a fractional CMO are enormous. This edition is a wise and successful option for businesses looking for top-tier advertising information without the high cost of an in-house CMO. The reductions include talent acquisition strategies, education costs, and employee benefits. Businesses may strategically distribute assets using a fractional CMO while optimizing budgets and capitalizing on the pro-advertising government's insight. This strategy improves operational performance by assuring a cautious monetary approach linked with the employer's growth trajectory. Considerations: While fractional CMOs offer considerable advantages, recognizing aptitude-demanding scenarios is significantly more critical. Organizations must realize potential skill gaps in corporate knowledge, recognizing that fractional CMOs are a short-to-mid-term solution. Despite these difficulties, the instant value given by Fractional CMOs and commitment to a company's growth trajectory make them indispensable in negotiating the complexity of cutting-edge advertising. By identifying and resolving these issues, organizations may strategically harness the expertise of Fractional CMOs, setting the stage for immediate rewards and long-term fulfillment in a SaaS market. Who Needs a Fractional CMO? Is It Right for Your Business? Hiring a Fractional CMO proved strategic for organizations in various circumstances. It becomes an excellent alternative for companies looking to establish a new marketing function, gain independent insights on company strategy, or initiate large go-to-market campaigns. Fractional CMOs' flexibility and competence respond to various company demands, making them an excellent alternative for organizations primed for development and needing quick, high-level marketing leadership. In the context of SaaS marketing, their adaptability and expertise become crucial assets, enabling Fractional CMOs to navigate the unique challenges and dynamics of the SaaS industry with precision and strategic acumen. Agency vs. Fractional CMO It is critical to distinguish between fractional CMOs and B2B marketing agency in the market. Unlike traditional marketing firms, which are generally focused on execution, fractional CMOs are vital executive team members, bringing leadership and strategic vision to the forefront. While agencies may require specific guidance, fractional CMOs frequently engage in CEO meetings, offering strategic guidance and contributing to the company's planned development. As a result, they are a dynamic addition for firms seeking not only execution but also overall marketing leadership. Saffron Edge, a link building agency, can help you with your SEO objectives and other paid marketing objectives. How to Hire a Fractional CMO: A Step-by-Step Guide Identify Business Obstacles: Digitally describe and document your company challenges, laying the groundwork for recruiting. Set objectives: Gather your leadership team to define critical KPIs, qualifications, and expectations for the influence of the Fractional CMO. Networking and research: Investigate applicants on platforms like LinkedIn, focusing on qualified individuals with experience in Fractional CMO jobs. Partnerships and referrals: Utilize your network and recruitment partners to gain access to qualified C-Suite advisors, hence expediting the applicant selection process. References and interviews: To align expectations with the candidate's song report, prepare a list of CMO interview questions and do detailed interviews with a candidate scorecard and test references. Negotiation and Compromise: Before signing a detailed settlement, finalize the engagement terms, which include the scope of work, deliverables, compensation, and duration. Check-ins on a Regular Basis: Establish a routine for daily check-ins to monitor progress, get updates, and ensure the collaboration produces the intended results. Compelling Reasons to Opt for a Fractional CMO Strategy is King: Strategic marketing direction is essential, similar to playbooks in successful sports teams. This strategic prowess is brought by a fractional CMO, who aligns marketing initiatives with well-defined goals for measurable business outcomes. It emphasizes the significance of a unified strategy in navigating the competitive business world by drawing comparisons with sports. Execution Over Ideas: The importance of strategy execution cannot be emphasized. A part-time CMO allows businesses to invest in talented tacticians for various B2B marketing platforms. This focus on execution guarantees that strategic strategies are conceptual and actively implemented, maximizing the effect of marketing campaigns. Predictable Results by Process: The Functional Marketing Framework presents a process-driven approach, providing Fractional CMOs with tools to achieve spectacular and measurable results. This one-of-a-kind technique establishes a structured framework for SaaS marketing strategies that are planned and methodically carried out for constant success. New Thinking Promoted by Collective Wisdom: A Think Tank inside the Fractional CMO community promotes collective wisdom, allowing for exchanging new ideas across sectors. This collaborative approach guarantees that Fractional CMOs bring innovative, effective solutions, utilizing varied skills to solve problems creatively. Clarity for Teams: A fractional CMO is critical in providing clear guidance. This clarity boosts team members' confidence and productivity, linking them with the overall B2B marketing plan. The leadership of the Fractional CMO ensures that the team knows their tasks and contributes efficiently to the organization's goals. Short-Term Commitment, Long-Term Results: A Fractional CMO's 90-day sprint engagement strategy provides flexibility while mitigating financial risks for organizations. This short-term commitment enables firms to assess the effect of the CMO's efforts before committing to a long-term commitment, ensuring that outcomes meet expectations. Hiring a Fractional CMO gives access to top-tier knowledge without the cost burden of a full-time C-level executive. This low-cost methodology enables organizations to benefit from experienced leadership while optimizing resources and ensuring high B2B marketing competence. Conclusion Fractional CMOs provide a compelling alternative for organizations seeking immediate impact and long-term success. Organizations may traverse complexity by strategically using their know-how, guaranteeing a development trajectory fit with the dynamic environment of modern marketing. Fractional Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) serve as strategic catalysts, providing a versatile, cost-effective solution for organizations navigating growth. Fractional CMOs are external strategic partners, smoothly integrating with organizations to generate growth, coordinate advertising campaigns, and ensure a competitive market position. At Saffron Edge, a leading marketing agency, we understand your business objectives and KPIs to deliver the best strategies and execution for your brand. Content marketing services by Saffron Edge will be helpful for your brand's content strategy on the website and also social media. ...
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10 Top Digital Marketing Agencies in New Jersey
The digital marketing in New Jersey, a booming center of business and innovation, is as crowded as Starbucks or Chase Banks, with several companies vying for businesses' attention. But within the many, the challenge lies not in finding a digital marketing agency but rather in selecting the right one that will actually provide outcomes. Agencies have adjusted to the shifting environment of digital marketing over the past ten years, providing a broad range of services that include CRO, performance branding, email marketing, video marketing, social media management, SEO, SEM, and content marketing. Digital ad spending is predicted to surpass $300 billion by 2025, according to eMarketer, highlighting the crucial role that digital marketing plays in the economy amid this boom, businesses must choose an agency that shares their aims and beliefs. Here are six crucial elements that will drive this decision-making process. The Changing Face of Digital Marketing In New Jersey The most recent technological developments, changes in consumer behavior, and changing industry trends have all contributed to major changes in New Jersey's digital marketing landscape. It is critical for firms to comprehend the primary factors influencing decision-making as they endeavor to navigate this dynamic market. Six significant components stand out in this context as key pillars influencing the direction of digital marketing tactics. 1. Experience & Expertise: Look for advertising agencies in New Jersey with a proven track record in your industry or dealing with comparable companies. Request case studies or work samples to assess their proficiency and accomplishments in the specific type of marketing you seek. 2. Reputation & References: Explore references, testimonials, and online reviews to gauge the agency's reputation. A history of satisfied clients and positive testimonials serves as a strong indicator of an agency's reliability and capability. 3. Capabilities & Services: While many agencies offer similar services, their execution methods may differ. Ensure your chosen agency possesses industry-standard knowledge essential for project success. Additionally, assess whether they have any specific expertise or technological know-how relevant to your needs. 4. Strategy: A qualified agency should craft a customized marketing plan tailored to your target market and business objectives. Look for agencies that employ unique and original approaches to differentiate your brand from competitors. 5. Communication: Effective communication is vital for partnership success. Seek agencies that prioritize tight collaboration, transparency, and responsiveness. Regular updates and open lines of communication are essential for project success and client satisfaction. 6. Culture Fit: Collaborating with a digital marketing agency in new jersey whose culture aligns with your own fosters greater project cooperation and a harmonious working relationship. Consider factors such as overall compatibility, communication preferences, and work style. Top 10 Top Digital Marketing Agencies in New Jersey After thorough research on various digital review platforms like Semrush, we have created a list of our top 10 digital marketing agencies you can continue your research on. 1. Saffron Edge: Delivering Excellence Through Technology Location: Totowa, New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: Branding, SEO, SaaS marketing Industries Served: B2B Services, Saas Marketing, Digital Marketing Services Rating: 5 Saffron Edge is a leading digital marketing agency specializing in innovative digital marketing solutions for the dynamic B2B industries. Founded over 15 years ago, Saffron Edge has evolved into a beacon of success, committed to perfection and brilliance in transforming businesses. Our comprehensive service suite encompasses various digital marketing methodologies, including Search engine optimization , paid media services, content marketing, social media marketing, and web development not only for SaaS and DTC brands but also for Legal, Dental, Auto, HVAC, and other B2B industries. 2. Sagapixel SEO: Digital Marketing for Healthcare Location: New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: SEO, Social Media MarketingIndustries Served: Healthcare & Hospital Rating: 5 Sagapixel SEO specializes in healthcare marketing, providing high-quality SEO services to a wide range of healthcare providers. With a perfect rating of 5, they demonstrate unrivaled proficiency in digital marketing in the healthcare industry. This dynamic firm provides services in a variety of industries, including healthcare, legal, and home services, exhibiting adaptability and a dedication to producing significant digital solutions for clients. 3. WOWbix Marketing: Business Growth, the WOW Way Location: Paramus, New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: Branding, SEOIndustries Served: Health & Wellness, Construction Rating: 5 With a focus on digital marketing solutions, WOWbix Marketing was founded in 2015 with the goal of addressing a gap in the market for excellent yet reasonably priced services. Since then, we have grown into a multinational organization with our headquarters located in New Jersey, and we are well-known for our superiority in all facets of the digital world. We can create responsive and user-friendly websites through web design, and we can also handle search engine optimization to make sure your business stands out from the competition. Our talents are broad and significant, and we have experience with pay-per-click campaigns and social media marketing. WOWbix Marketing is an expert in providing all-inclusive digital solutions designed to improve your online visibility and propel unmatched success. 4. Estes Media: Let's Get People Talking Location: Jersey City, New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: Branding, SEOIndustries Served: Architecture, Construction Rating: 5 Estes Media, based in Jersey City, stands out as a digital marketing agency dedicated to helping companies scale. With a strong emphasis on SEO, content creation, and web design, they facilitate meaningful conversations about your brand. 5. Webryact: Your One-Stop Digital Shop Location: New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: Branding, SEOIndustries Served: Health & Wellness, Construction Rating: 4.9 Webryact positions itself as a one-stop digital shop, recognizing the massive impact an online presence can have on business success. With a rating of 4.9, they offer comprehensive branding and SEO solutions. 6. Red Bananas, LLC.: Taking Your Digital Marketing to New Heights! Location: New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: SEO, Social Media MarketingIndustries Served: Insurance, Automotive Rating: 4.9 Red Bananas, LLC., with offices in California, Philadelphia, and the MENA region, is a global player serving industry leaders. Their expertise in SEO and social media marketing is reflected in their impressive 4.9 rating. 7. Stephanie Marie Delgado: Top-Rated Content Strategist/Web Dev Location: New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: Branding, SEOIndustries Served: Insurance, Health & WellnessRating: 4.9 Stephanie Marie Delgado, a top-rated content strategist and web developer, brings a wealth of skills ranging from SEO and analytics to web design and CMS development. Her impressive 4.9 rating attests to her expertise. 8. Mejix Inc: Everything is Possible with a Beat of Mejix Location: New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: Branding, SEOIndustries Served: Architecture, Fashion RetailRating: 4.9 Mejix Inc. focuses on empowering customers through innovative strategies and tactics. Their commitment to business growth, reflected in a 4.9 rating, makes them a valuable asset in the rapidly changing digital landscape. 9. Splurge: World-Class Marketing with Local Impact Location: Clark, New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: Branding, SEOIndustries Served: B2B Services, ConstructionRating: 4.9 Splurge Media, a full-service digital marketing agency, is committed to helping small and mid-sized businesses succeed in the technology-driven digital world. Their 4.9 rating highlights their dedication to strategic marketing. 10. Creative Click Media: Success is Just One Click Away Location: New Jersey, United StatesSpecialization: Branding, SEOIndustries Served: Manufacturing, Health & WellnessRating: 4.9 Creative Click Media offers comprehensive digital marketing services to businesses of all sizes. Their custom strategies and commitment to delivering a high ROI have earned them a stellar 4.9 rating. In a state brimming with digital expertise, these top 10 digital marketing agencies in New Jersey, including the standout Saffron Edge, pave the way for businesses to thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape. From healthcare-focused solutions to comprehensive branding and SEO services, these agencies bring diverse skills to the table, ensuring success for businesses across industries. ...
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10 Best CRM and Automation Tools: Streamline Your Business in 2024
In today's quick-moving business environment, handling marketing and customer relations smartly is essential. Customer relationship management software is an essential asset in tracking and closing deals. These tools help companies organize their tasks better, make customer interactions smoother, and get more done. This guide will cover the best CRM and marketing automation software options in 2024. We'll discuss why these all-in-one systems are beneficial, what to look out for when choosing one, and take a closer look at nine top choices. Plus, we'll share some advice on picking the right CRM automation tool for your business needs. What are the benefits of a CRM with automation? An automated CRM can help you by handling tasks so your teams can avoid doing repetitive work. For example, regular email synchronization ensures that your business's most recent email communications are archived in your CRM and categorized under the appropriate contact profiles. Furthermore, you can configure automation to send follow-up reminders to team members when their assigned deals are in danger of being lost. With your automated CRM taking care of the majority of the workload, your business can experience the following benefits: Reducing the sales cycle allows your marketing and sales teams to dedicate more time and effort to high-value tasks, such as negotiating mutually beneficial deals, instead of being tied up with repetitive clicking tasks. Improve customer satisfaction by enabling your teams to address customers' needs promptly. Generating higher revenue by securing more deals (including higher-value ones). In conclusion, an automated CRM with marketing automation services streamlines tasks, enhances lead management, and personalizes marketing efforts. This results in higher conversion rates and better customer retention. Leveraging CRM and marketing automation optimizes campaigns and tracks interactions, providing a competitive edge. What features should I look for in a CRM with automation? To effectively manage your sales pipelines and increase deal closures, the best CRM and marketing automation software for your small business should have these features: Recording Customer Interactions A good CRM should consolidate all customer interactions in one place, whether via email, SMS, video call, or other channels. This organization helps keep track of communications, especially when multiple team members are involved or conversations span an extended period. Contact Segmentation Your CRM should offer flexible contact segmentation to tailor your sales efforts to different groups. For instance, creating a segment for high lead score contacts can help prioritize closing those deals. Lead Scoring Scoring leads according to their engagement with your business facilitates identifying high-potential deals. Ensure your CRM allows you to define events that impact lead scores and adjust these scores automatically using machine learning, as seen in tools like Hubspot. Incorporating this into your marketing automation strategy enhances efficiency and effectiveness. Sales Pipeline Management A robust CRM should offer a dashboard to track sales across various pipeline stages and automate sales processes, such as assigning deals, sending follow-up emails, and marking deals as closed. Customer Service Integration Integrating customer service with your CRM is essential. Look for features like a shared inbox for managing support conversations and automation tools such as chatbots and intelligent ticket assignments based on team members' expertise. Analytics and Reporting A CRM should provide various reports to measure marketing and sales effectiveness and allow for the creation of custom reports to meet your business's unique needs. Data Sync Ensure your CRM integrates seamlessly with other apps you use, consolidating data within one platform. This integration might include pulling emails into contact profiles or connecting with your eCommerce store. Email Marketing Combining CRM with email marketing automation is beneficial. Your CRM should include or support email marketing features and marketing automation to: Send welcome emails to new leads Deliver drip campaigns to nurture leads Send automated emails for onboarding or referrals Add tags to contacts for segmentation and personalization CRM and marketing automation are different, but they also have similarities. If you are considering using an automated CRM for email marketing, look at all the marketing automation features it offers. Want to reduce your CAC to half? Book a strategy call Top 10 CRM with automation tools 1. Salesforce Salesforce is a CRM powerhouse offering diverse tools for businesses of all sizes. Its extensive automation capabilities include lead assignment, task creation, and complex workflow rules. Salesforce's AppExchange marketplace provides numerous integrations and add-ons to extend functionality. Key features: Einstein AI for predictive analytics and intelligent automation Customizable dashboards and reports Robust mobile app Extensive third-party integrations Industry-specific solutions Pricing: Salesforce offers various pricing tiers, starting from $25/user/month for the Essentials plan. Higher-priced plans provide more advanced features. 2. HubSpot HubSpot offers a user-friendly all-in-one platform that combines CRM, marketing, sales, and service hubs. Its intuitive and powerful automation features make it a great option for small to medium-sized businesses seeking to expand their operations. Key features: Free CRM with basic automation Visual workflow builder Landing page and form builders Built-in SEO tools Content management system (CMS) Pricing: HubSpot provides a no-cost option with essential features, and its premium plans begin at $45 per month for the Starter plan. 3. ActiveCampaign ActiveCampaign excels in marketing automation, offering advanced features like predictive sending and deal win probability. Its strong CRM capabilities suit businesses focused on email marketing and customer engagement. Key features: Machine learning-powered automation Site tracking and event tracking Robust segmentation options Split testing for automation Conversation intelligence Pricing: ActiveCampaign's pricing starts at $29/month for up to 1,000 contacts, with higher tiers offering more advanced features. 4. Zoho CRM Zoho CRM , is a part of a larger suite of business tools, offering seamless integration across various functions. Its automation features are comprehensive, including workflow rules, macros, and assignment rules. Key features: AI-powered sales assistant (Zia) Canvas design studio for customizing the interface Gamification features to motivate sales teams Social media integration Advanced analytics and forecasting Pricing: Zoho CRM provides a free plan for up to 3 users and paid plans beginning at $14 per user per month. 5. EngageBay EngageBay is a comprehensive, user-friendly platform integrating CRM, marketing, sales, and service modules. Its robust automation capabilities and affordability make it ideal for small—to medium-sized businesses aiming to enhance their growth and efficiency. Key features: Provides essential CRM functions with built-in automation. Visual Workflow Builder to create and manage workflows. Anyone can create landing pages and form builders It has Built-in SEO Tools Craft and automate email campaigns to engage your audience Offer excellent customer support with helpdesk and live chat features Pricing: EngageBay offers a free plan with essential features, and its premium plans start at $12.99 per month for the Basic plan. 6. Pipedrive Pipedrive is known for its intuitive, visually driven interface, which focuses on moving deals through the sales pipeline. While not as feature-rich as some competitors, its automation tools are well-designed and easy to use. Key features: Visual pipeline management AI sales assistant Two-way email sync Custom fields and activities Web forms for lead capture Pricing: Pipedrive starts at $14.90/user/month for the primary/essential plan, with more advanced features available in higher tiers. 7. Freshsales Freshsales is a part of the Freshworks suite and offers a clean, modern interface with powerful automation capabilities. Its AI-powered assistant, Freddy, helps with lead scoring and deal insights. Key features: Built-in phone and email Behavioral segmentation Auto-profile enrichment Territory managemen Predictive contact scoring Pricing: Freshsales offers a free plan with basic features, with paid plans starting at $15/user/month. 8. Keap Keap is designed specifically for small businesses. It offers a blend of CRM and marketing automation features. Its campaign builder is particularly strong, allowing for complex, multi-step automation. Key features: E-commerce integration Automated follow-up sequences Appointment scheduling Invoicing and payments Lead scoring and segmentation Pricing: Keap's pricing starts at $79/month for 500 contacts, with higher tiers offering more advanced features and contact limits. 9. Ontraport Ontraport provides a powerful and smart platform for managing the entire customer lifecycle. Its automation features are particularly robust, allowing for complex, branching workflows. Key features: Visual campaign builder Membership site management Affiliate program management Detailed performance reporting Automated split testing Pricing: Ontraport starts at $79/month for up to 1,000 contacts, with higher tiers available for growing businesses. 10. Drip While primarily focused on e-commerce businesses, Drip offers powerful CRM and marketing automation features that can benefit various industries. Its personalization capabilities are powerful. Key features: Visual workflow builder Advanced segmentation Revenue attribution Multi-channel campaigns (email, SMS, social) Personalized product recommendation Pricing: Drip's pricing is based on the number of contacts, starting at $39/month for up to 2,500 contacts. Want to reduce your CAC to half? Book a strategy call How do you choose the best CRM automation tool? Choosing the right CRM and marketing automation software for your business is crucial. Here are key factors to consider during your evaluation process: Time to Value Look for a solution that offers quick implementation and a user-friendly interface. The faster your team can adopt and use the system effectively, the sooner you'll see a return on investment. Consider factors like: Intuitive navigation Availability of training resources Quality of customer support Ease of data migration Time to Value Look for a solution that offers quick implementation and a user-friendly interface. The faster your team can adopt and use the system effectively, the sooner you'll see a return on investment. Consider factors like: Intuitive navigation Availability of training resources Quality of customer support Ease of data migration Reporting Features Advanced analytics and reporting capabilities are essential for making data-driven decisions. Evaluate the tool's ability to provide: Customizable dashboards Real-time data updates Advanced filtering options Export capabilities for further analysis Simple Setup A complex setup process can delay implementation and frustrate users. Prioritize solutions that offer: Consider factors like: Guided setup wizards Pre-built templates for common use cases Clear documentation Responsive technical support Team Productivity Features Look for tools that improve your team's efficiency and collaboration. Key features might include: Task management and reminders Internal chat or commenting systems Document sharing and version control Calendar integration Customer Experience Features Ultimately, your CRM should help you provide better service to your customers. Consider tools that offer: 360-degree customer views Personalization capabilities Omnichannel support options Customer feedback collection Total Cost of Ownership While the initial price is important, consider the total cost of ownership over time. Factor in: Subscription fees Implementation costs Training expenses Potential need for additional integrations or add-ons Integrates with Your Tech Stack The best CRM and marketing automation software should work seamlessly with your existing tools. Evaluate: Native integrations with popular business software API availability for custom integrations Compatibility with your current data storage solutions Ease of data syncing across platforms Mobile Sales Management Look for a solution that offers quick implementation and a user-friendly interface. The faster your team can adopt and use the system effectively, the sooner you'll see a return on investment. Full-featured mobile apps (not just mobile-responsive web interfaces) Offline access to key data Mobile-specific features like click-to-call or GPS check-ins Free Trial Always take advantage of free trials to get hands-on experience with the tool. During the trial: Test key features relevant to your workflow Evaluate the user interface and assess its ease of use. Assess the quality of customer support Ask for feedback from team members who will be using the system Conclusion Choosing the appropriate CRM and marketing automation software is essential for improving your business operations, customer connections, and insights to drive growth and productivity. Before making a decision, test out these CRM automation tools for yourself! Signing up for their free plans or trials is simple, so take advantage of this opportunity to experience the platforms' capabilities and see if they align with your sales processes. Contact us today to learn how Saffron Edge can modernize your customer relationships and marketing efficiency approach. ...
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