Customer relationship management (CRM) events focus on the people, software and Internet tools that manage a customer's experience. Information to help sales people and executives understand who their customers are and how they use the products and services your company offers is just the beginning. Knowing how to leverage the data to bring in new and bigger sales is the real power of attending a conference on customer management.

Keeping track of all the leads and knowing where each prospective deal stands requires user-friendly applications and knowledgeable staff. Customer relationship management events provide valuable information on current industry trends and events. Keynote sessions with industry experts help you better understand and utilize the relationship with your customers. Consider the following when looking for CRM events to attend:

1. Attending large events in CRM expose your business to more options in technology ensuring the best possible match for your company.

2. Finding a CRM conference with a data collection focus allows you to better manage prospects and sales.

3. Participating in a conference on customer service provides employees insight into understanding your customers' needs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get more from your customer data with innovative technologies found at events in CRM

Technology is the foundation of a good customer relationship management conference. Finding the solution that work for your business ensures more prospects become customers and current customers keep coming back. CRM conferences highlight custom and pre-built solutions that help your business control the customer experience.

I recommend: The North American Conference On Customer Management (NACCM) bring the technologies and experts together to help your business meet its customer relationship goals. Seklemian/Newell holds an annual conference to bring new technologies and current information to professionals around the world.

Learn to use customer feedback to better meet client needs and build loyalty

Customer relations management conventions that focus on understanding customer data and feedback gives insight on controlling the flow of potential and current sales for your business. Keynote sessions that update personnel on new trends and information management techniques maximize lead conversion.

I recommend: Gartner hosts annual CRM events to help your business make the most of customer information you collect. The International Quality & Productivity Center offers a conference dedicated to gathering customer feedback and using it to increase sales.

Control your customers' experience with techniques taught at a conference on customer service

The people on the front line of your business need current information on prospects and customers to provide better service and promote customer loyalty. A conference on customer service updates training and ensures your company's customers have a smooth and happy buying experience.

I recommend: The Institute of Customer Service (ICS) provides customer management conferences with expert keynote presentations and focused seminars. Increasing customer loyalty is the focus of the Return2Customer annual conference with expert sessions and seminars.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Large customer relations management conventions offer so many options that it's easy to miss the sessions that best meet your business needs. Plan your schedule to ensure you make the most of your time at an event.