I Took a 6-Week CRM Course, So You Didn’t Have To

While I may have roasted this course, let’s be clear, having a proper CRM is absolutely crucial to any business. Whether you’re a solopreneur or managing a large team, a well-chosen CRM can be a game-changer for organizing customer data, improving relationships, and driving growth. Selecting the right system is not something to take lightly, so don’t let my sarcasm downplay the importance of finding a solution that truly fits your business needs.

Ever looked at your overflowing inbox, thought “I should really optimize my customer relationships,” and signed up for a CRM course? Yeah, me too. I’ve emerged with a certificate, a vague understanding of data migration, and a strong desire to invoice the course provider for wasted time.

Let’s break down the highlights (if you can call them that).

The Evolution of CRM: From Stone Tablets to AI
Yes, the course started with a history lesson. Did you know people used paper to track customers before the 1980s? Mind-blowing. Fast forward to today, and CRMs are “powered by AI.” But if you think this section contained practical insights into using AI, think again. Instead, I watched someone read verbatim from CRM vendor websites about “workflow automation” and “data analytics.” Riveting stuff.

Choosing a CRM: Because the Right Fit Is Everything
Selecting the perfect CRM was likened to finding your soulmate. Except your soulmate is a clunky software platform, and this course made that decision feel as thrilling as filing taxes. The takeaway? Answer a lot of generic questions like “Do I want to increase sales?” (spoiler alert: yes). Also, prepare to navigate endless lists of features while suppressing the urge to scream, “JUST PICK ONE!”

Implementation: AKA Migrating Data Without Losing Your Sanity
If you enjoy deleting duplicate data for hours, you’ll love this part. Data migration was presented as a strategic balancing act, but in reality, it’s just glorified Excel cleanup with a fancy name. And if things go wrong? At least you’ll have that backup copy you were told to make 17 times. Progress, right?

Marketing Automation: Set It and Forget It (Kind Of)
This section taught me how to spam—sorry, I mean nurture leads—with targeted campaigns. The promise of effortless automation sounded great until the instructor reminded us that over-automation makes your brand sound robotic. So basically, automate but don’t overdo it. Thanks for the actionable tip.

The Budget-Friendly CRM Options That Almost Made Me Cry
Why spend money on an overhyped CRM when you can wrestle with a “free” version that limits you to three users, 200 contacts, and zero functionality? Open-source CRMs were also discussed, though the caveat was clear: “You get what you pay for”—which in this case, is headaches.

The Good, The Bad, and The Boring

 The Good:
• I now know how to manually migrate data (not that I ever want to do it again).
• I have a newfound appreciation for well-designed tutorials.

 The Bad:
• Watching someone read CRM vendor websites out loud is not what I’d call “training.”
• The course didn’t deliver anything I couldn’t have Googled in half the time.

 The Boring:
 • Everything. Absolutely everything.

What I Would Have Done Instead
• Watched tutorials: YouTube has fantastic free content on CRM basics.
• Played with a free trial: Most CRM platforms let you try them out—hands-on experience beats narrated slides any day.
• Read reviews: Real users are brutally honest about what works and what doesn’t.

Would I Recommend This Course?
Only if you’re being paid to take it. Otherwise, skip the PowerPoints, grab a coffee, and spend your time actually exploring CRM software. Trust me, you’ll learn more and stay awake.

You’re welcome.

Tips for Finding a CRM Program That Works for You

            1. Define Your Needs First
Before diving into CRM comparisons, get crystal clear on what you need. Write down your must-haves and nice-to-haves to stay focused on what really matters for your business.

            2. Set a Realistic Budget
CRM pricing varies wildly—from free plans for small teams to enterprise solutions that cost more than a luxury car.

            3. Take Advantage of Free Trials
Most CRM providers offer free trials or demo accounts. 

            4. Evaluate Scalability
Choose a CRM that can grow with your business. Even if you’re small now!

            5. Prioritize Integration with Existing Tools
Your CRM should work seamlessly with the tools you already use, like: Email marketing platforms, Accounting software, and E-commerce platforms. Check for direct integrations or compatibility through middleware like Zapier.

            6. Check Customization Options
No two businesses are the same, so a one-size-fits-all CRM might not cut it. 

            7. Assess Customer Support
When things go wrong (and they will), a responsive support team is a lifesaver.

            8. Read Real User Reviews
Reviews from real users can reveal issues that sales pitches gloss over. Look for feedback! Websites like G2, TrustRadius, or Capterra are great for honest reviews.

            9. Think About Data Security
If you handle sensitive customer data, prioritize security features.

            10. Ask for Recommendations
Talk to others in your industry or community to see what CRMs they swear by—and what to avoid. Firsthand advice is invaluable.