In any business, your database is ultimately your best asset. But if you are like most people, your contact information is stored in a variety of places.  Anywhere from the stack of business cards in your drawer or rolodex to the post it notes on your desk and some information that has made its way into your computer or phone. How these contacts are stored can mean the difference between having useful and current information or having a list of people who you may or may not even remember. 

So, what is the best way to collect, manage and use your contact information? 

When developing a database, the first thing to ask yourself is what is my reason for collecting this information? Is it to send out a newsletter by email or do you mail out marketing materials? Maybe you want to keep in touch with your clients by phone to keep them up to date? Whatever the reason, you will need to determine how to group or or categorize your contacts to differentiate who gets what message and through what medium. 

The next step is to decide which database tool will work best to manage your contacts.  If you are not comfortable with technology, you might decide to keep a paper copy in either a rolodex or address book. Once this list gets too big to manage, then the information should be put into a digital format. There are many database programs out there to choose from, but a tool is only helpful if you enter the information correctly and know how to use it. Creating categories for your contacts can help you use the information more effectively, locate contacts quickly, and ultimately get better results.

If you want to learn more or have questions about how to better manage your contact information, contact Organizing Help at info@organizinghelp.ca