19 Best CRM Software for Consultants Reviewed in 2024
Best CRM Software for Consultants Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 19 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Choosing the right CRM software for consultants is tough. You want to manage client relationships and streamline your workflow but must figure out the best tool. Using my extensive experience in digital software, I tested and reviewed several of the top CRM software for consultants on the market.
From this list, I compiled in-depth reviews to help consultants source their ideal solution. Whether you’re a personal consultant or work for a larger organization, rest assured that you’ll find your next CRM software in this article.
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Best CRM Software for Consultants Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Salesflare | From $29/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Streak | From $49/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Bonsai | From $19/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Keap | From $249/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Insightly | From $29/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Bitrix24 | From $49/month (max of 5 users) | Website |
| Accelo | From $20/user/month | Website |
| Salesforce Financial Services Cloud | From $25/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Pipedrive | From $12.50/user/month, (billed annually). | Website |
| ClickUp | From $7/user/month | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow To Choose A CRM Software For Consultants
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Ease of Use: Your selected CRM should simplify your business processes, not complicate them. As a result, make it a priority to look for a tool that is intuitive and easy to navigate.
- Customization: Every consulting business has unique workflows and processes. A CRM that allows for customization can help tailor the software to fit specific needs.
- Integration with Other Tools: Consultants often use various tools for different aspects of their business. A CRM that integrates with these tools can save time, reduce manual data entry, and ensure business data is synchronized across the entire revenue cycle.
- Mobile Accessibility: Consultants need the flexibility to work from anywhere. A CRM with strong mobile capabilities allows users to update information and take action on the go. It should also support end-to-end independent consultant practice management, including sales pipeline and project management, from a phone or tablet.
- Customer Support: Reliable customer support is important, especially when you’re experiencing setup and configuration issues. Keep an eye out for a CRM that offers support options, including real human support.
Best CRM Software for Consultants Reviews
This in-depth analysis provides overviews of each CRM software for consultants. Below, I will walk through the pros and cons, their key features, and their best use cases.
Salesflare is a CRM software for small and medium-sized businesses selling B2B. It automates data management and enrichment and email communication, allowing users to focus on making more sales.
Why I picked Salesflare: Salesflare focuses on automation, which reduces manual data entry and client management. This CRM automatically logs emails, meetings, and calls, ensuring that consultants can spend more time engaging with clients and less on administrative tasks. Additionally, it has intelligent data enrichment capabilities that automatically gather information from various sources, such as social media profiles and company databases to provide a comprehensive view of each contact.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an automated address book and calendars, data enrichment from publicly available sources, and email sequences for personalized engagement at scale. Salesflare also offers visual sales pipeline management and automated reminders.
Integrations include Gmail, Microsoft 365, LinkedIn, Zapier, iCloud, and Microsoft Exchange.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automatic data logging
- Intelligent data enrichment
- Intuitive pipeline management system
Cons:
- Limited customization options for larger consulting firms
- Limited mobile app functionality
Streak is a customer relationship management tool designed to integrate with Gmail, making it a highly convenient tool for consultants reliant on email communication.
Why I picked Streak: Streak’s integration with Gmail eliminates the constant switch between different applications and streamlines workflows, making it easy for consultants to track emails, set reminders, and manage pipelines without leaving Gmail. The software also automates repetitive tasks such as sending follow-up emails, creating task reminders, and updating pipeline stages. Additionally, it has an email tracking feature that provides insights into client engagement and the effectiveness of communication strategies.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include email tracking, pipeline management, and customizable workflows. Streak also offers advanced features like mail merge, snippets for commonly used emails, and the ability to schedule emails to be sent later.
Integrations include G Suite, Zapier, Google Sheets, Google Drive, Google Calendar, Slack, Typeform, Calendly, and API for custom integrations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy task tracking and email communication
- Real-time email tracking
- Email-powered pipelines
Cons:
- Not as effective with other email platforms
- Limited automation workflows and analytics
Bonsai is an all-in-one business management platform with client and project management and financial tools for consultants and small businesses.
Why I picked Bonsai: Bonsai offers a large suite of tools that can streamline all aspects of business management, including client and project management, contract creation, time tracking, and invoicing. It offers contract and proposal management capabilities, allowing consultants to create, send, and sign contracts and proposals digitally. Additionally, it has extensive time tracking and expense management that provides insights into project profitability and financial performance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include client management, project organization, workflow automation, and a client portal.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Google Drive, Gmail, Google Sheets, Zapier, ClickUp, Trello, Google Calendar, Slack, and Calendly.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Dedicated client portal for proposals, contracts, and invoices
- Expense management within projects
- Customizable contract management
Cons:
- Limited customization for specialized CRM systems
- Limited CRM-specific features
Keap is a CRM software that provides tracking and analyzing tools for small businesses and consultants.
Why I picked Keap: Keap comes with advanced automation tools, enabling consultants to automate client follow-ups, appointment scheduling, and email marketing campaigns. The platform has a visual automation builder for creating and customizing workflows without advanced technical skills, and a built-in email marketing feature for personalized email campaigns, audience segmentation, and engagement tracking. Additionally, it provides tools for managing invoices, payments, and client communications.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include marketing automation, sales automation, and a dedicated mobile number for calls and texts. Keap also offers tools for lead capture, and email and text marketing.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Zapier, Gmail, Outlook, Shopify, WordPress, PayPal, Stripe, Mailchimp, and Google Analytics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong lead scoring and segmentation tools
- Advanced email marketing and campaign management tools
- Integrated payment processing
Cons:
- Occasional issues with email deliverability
- Limited reporting and analytics capabilities
Insightly is a modern, scalable CRM that helps teams build lasting customer relationships through client interactions and project performance.
Why I picked Insightly: Insightly provides tools for tracking project milestones, assigning tasks, and monitoring project progress in real-time. These functions allow consultants to manage client interactions and project deliverables within a single platform, streamlining workflow and improving efficiency. Its flexible customization options can be tailored to meet changing needs, like custom fields and workflows. Additionally, it offers advanced reporting and analytics tools that provide insight into client behavior, project performance, and sales trends.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable dashboards, workflow automation, and advanced reporting tools. Insightly also offers project management capabilities, lead routing, and mobile access.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Xero, Sage, Workday, ADP Workforce Now, BambooHR, ZoomInfo, Gong, Docusign, and WordPress.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced workflow automation
- Custom no-code app builder for specific processes
- Advanced relationship linking
Cons:
- Additional technical support for integrations
- Performance issues with large data sets
Bitrix24 is a free online workspace that offers a wide range of features for businesses, including CRM, task management, and project management. It provides tools for sales management, collaboration, and automation.
Why I picked Bitrix24: Bitrix24 has extensive integration of business tools, including video conferencing, email marketing, human resources, and a website builder. The software provides an advanced client management system to help automate tasks such as lead assignment and task notification. Bitrix24 is available in both cloud-based and on-premise versions, which is ideal for businesses that need this flexibility.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include sales management, contact center, sales team collaboration, sales enablement, analytics and reports, mobile CRM, marketing, automation and integrations, and CoPilot in CRM.
Integrations include Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, MailChimp, Zapier, Trello, Asana, Microsoft Office 365, Google Calendar, and Zoom.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integrations
- Custom workflows and automation
- Internal social network for communication
Cons:
- Interface appears cluttered and overwhelming
- Occasional performance issues with large data sets
Accelo is a platform designed to help consultants achieve their profit goals. It provides a suite of products for client work, including sales, projects, tickets, retainers, billing, and reports.
Why I picked Accelo: Accelo allows consultants to manage client engagements from a single platform. It offers an intuitive dashboard and real-time updates on project statuses, deadlines, and team workloads, helping users deliver tasks on time and within budget. Additionally, Accelo can create custom workflows that automate key processes and ensure consistency across projects and clients.
Standout features & integrations:
Features sales management, project planning, ticketing, retainer tracking, billing, and reporting.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, QuickBooks, Xero, Slack, Zapier, HubSpot, Mailchimp, Stripe, and PayPal.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrated project management
- Built-in service ticketing system
- End-to-end service automation
Cons:
- Difficulties in uploading and modifying targets
- Occasional reports of email errors
Salesforce is an advanced AI-driven CRM platform that provides tools for sales, service, marketing, and commerce, helping businesses work smarter and more efficiently.
Why I picked Salesforce: Salesforce utilizes Salesforce Einstein, an AI tool that provides consultants with predictive analytics, intelligent recommendations, and automated data entry. The software can analyze data to identify trends and patterns helping consultants anticipate client needs, optimize sales strategies, and improve overall business performance. Additionally, Salesforce offers features and functionalities that address the challenges and requirements of various consulting services like client segmentation, inventory management, account-based forecasting, permit and license management, and campaign performance tracking.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include AI-driven analytics, sales automation, customer service tools, and marketing automation.
Integrations include Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, LinkedIn, Mailchimp, QuickBooks, Zapier, Docusign, Dropbox, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad industry-specific solutions including healthcare and government
- Trailhead learning platform for upskilling
- Extensive customization with Salesforce AppExchange
Cons:
- Overwhelming user interface
- Complex pricing structure
Pipedrive is a sales CRM and pipeline management software that helps businesses track their sales pipeline, optimize leads, and manage deals with AI and automation tools.
Why I picked Pipedrive: Pipeline focuses on visualizing the sales process at a glance by allowing users to drag and drop deals between stages, offering an advanced way to manage the sales process and track progress. This CRM has powerful visualization tools that consultants can use to tailor their pipelines to reflect their sales processes and workflows. Pipeline also offers real-time updates of sales and deal statuses, a centralized database for client information, and lead management tools to capture, track, and nurture leads through the sales funnels.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable pipelines, real-time sales insights, AI-powered tools, a Kanban-style dashboard, real-time performance insights, goal-setting, and advanced sales metrics to help users make informed decisions.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Microsoft Outlook, Slack, Trello, Zapier, Mailchimp, Xero, QuickBooks, Zoom, and Asana.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Smart contact data
- Rotting feature to highlight at-risk deals
- Designed for sales performance and conversion optimization
Cons:
- No built-in contract management
- Limited lead scoring features
ClickUp is an all-in-one platform that offers project management, time tracking, chat, whiteboards, and more. It aims to streamline work, improve collaboration, enhance visibility, and automate business processes.
Why I picked ClickUp: ClickUp centralizes task and document management, time tracking, and client relationship management, allowing consulting companies to streamline workflows and processes. It can create detailed project plans, assign tasks, set deadlines, and real-time progress monitoring. Additionally, ClickUp has real-time collaboration features, including comments, mentions, and file sharing, and flexibility, allowing users to customize their workspace with various views, such as lists, boards, calendars, and Gantt charts.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable task views, time tracking, collaborative docs, whiteboards, no-code automation tools for repetitive tasks, and custom fields for contact information and deal stages.
Integrations include Slack, Google Drive, Trello, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Dropbox, GitHub, Evernote, Outlook, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Native document management
- Customization options for business processes and CRM needs
- Highly visual task management
Cons:
- Time-consuming initial setup
- Performance issues with complex operations
Other CRM Software For Consultants
Below is a list of additional CRM software for consultants that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.
- Capsule
For simple and intuitive CRM
- Freshsales
For streamlined sales
- Zoho CRM
For comprehensive business process automation
- Zendesk
For integrated customer support and ticketing
- HoneyBook
For managing client bookings and payments
- Attio
For data-driven relationship management
- monday.com
For customizable workflows and team collaboration
- HubSpot CRM
For marketing automation and lead tracking
- Nutshell
For sales automation and pipeline management
Related CRM Reviews
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CRM Software For Consultants Selection Criteria
The criteria for choosing a CRM software for consultants should directly address buyer needs and common pain points, ensuring that the software serves its intended purpose effectively. As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, here are the requirements I use when evaluating software:
Core Functionality (25% of total score):
- Organizing and maintaining detailed information, contact details, interaction histories, and communication preferences of clients and prospects
- Automatically assign tasks based on predefined triggers, send reminders for follow-ups, update contact records, and generate invoices
- Generation of custom reports that track key metrics such as sales performance, client acquisition rates, project progress, and financial health
- Capturing leads from various sources, such as websites, social media, and email campaigns
- Sync email accounts within the CRM and automatically logging the emails sent and received, and linking them to the relevant contact records
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score):
- Advanced algorithms and machine learning that analyze historical data and predict future outcomes
- Customizable dashboards to display key performance indicators, project statuses, sales pipelines, and client activity in real-time
- A convenient mobile app that can access client information, manage tasks, and communicate with the team on the go
- Seamless integration with other essential business applications such as email platforms and marketing automation systems
- Advanced data security for handling sensitive client information such as multi-factor authentication and role-based access controls
Usability (10% of total score):
- An intuitive user interface that enhances user satisfaction, reduces errors and increases productivity
- Drag-and-drop scheduling tools for simplifying appointments, task management, and project timelines
- A well-organized layout with clear menus and a logical structure
- Customizable workflows to match different operational needs and improve efficiency
- Minimal learning curve so consultants can quickly adopt and use the CRM software to its full potential without extensive training
Onboarding (10% of total score):
- Availability of training videos for an easy-to-follow method of learning how to use CRM effectively
- Interactive product tours that provide a hands-on learning experience on the CRM’s key features and functionalities
- Offers chatbots for on-demand assistance on questions while setting up or using the CRM
- Availability of webinars that allow users to learn from experts, ask questions in real time, and see detailed demonstrations of the software’s capabilities
- Pre-built templates to get started with the CRM without making everything from scratch
Customer Support (10% of total score):
- 24/7 support is available for users to receive assistance at any time, regardless of location or time zone
- Offer multiple support channels, such as phone, email, and chat, for users to choose the most convenient and effective method for their needs
- Dedicated account managers for a personalized support experience
- A knowledge base with articles, guides, and tutorials, as a self-service option to find answers and solutions quickly
Value For Money (10% of total score):
- Offers competitive pricing ensuring users receive maximum value without overpaying for features they might not need
- Flexible subscription plans for users to choose a pricing tier that matches their current needs
- A transparent pricing structure for users to understand what they are paying for without hidden fees or unexpected charges
- Offers a free trial period for users to test the software’s features, user interface, and effectiveness before committing financially
- Offers discounts for long-term commitments for users willing to commit to the CRM for an extended period
Customer Reviews (10% of total score):
- High overall satisfaction ratings from users
- Positive feedback on ease of use
- Positive comments on customer support quality
- Positive reviews highlighting the features’ effectiveness
- Positive user testimonials on ROI
Trends For CRM Software For Consultants
Here are some trends I’ve noticed for CRM software for consultants, plus what they might mean for the future. I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs to tease out the most important insights.
- Artificial Intelligence Integration: AI integration in CRM systems is transforming how consultants manage client relationships. These tools can automate repetitive tasks, provide predictive analytics, and offer personalized client interactions, enhancing efficiency and allowing consultants to focus on strategic activities.
- Enhanced Automation Workflows: Automation is becoming more sophisticated, enabling consultants to streamline workflows and reduce manual tasks.
- Mobile CRM Solutions: The rise of mobile CRM solutions allows consultants to access client data and manage relationships on the go. Mobile CRMs provide flexibility and ensure that consultants can respond to client needs promptly, regardless of their location.
- Industry-Specific CRM Solutions: CRM systems tailored to specific industries are gaining popularity. These solutions come with pre-built workflows, data models, and compliance features, making them ideal for consultants working in niche markets, allowing for more customized and efficient client management.
- Self-Service and Simple CRM Systems: There is a growing demand for self-service and easy-to-use CRM systems. These platforms require minimal technical support and are often cloud-based, making them accessible and scalable. This trend is important for consultants who need cost-effective and user-friendly solutions to manage their client relationships.
The evolving trends in CRM software for consultants highlight a shift towards more intuitive, AI-driven solutions that enhance client engagement and streamline operations.
By adopting the latest CRM innovations, consultants can better manage client relationships, improve productivity, and ultimately drive business growth.
What Is CRM Software For Consultants?
CRM software for consultants is a tool designed to help consulting professionals manage client relationships, track interactions, and streamline their workflow. Consultants use it to organize client information, schedule follow-ups, and monitor project progress, ensuring they provide timely and effective service.
Features Of CRM Software For Consultants
When shopping for your next CRM software, there are several features your option should have to make it a perfect fit. This includes:
- Comprehensive Client Profiling and Relationship Intelligence: A CRM should offer detailed client profiles, capturing interactions, preferences, and challenges. This helps consultants understand their clients better and build stronger relationships.
- Interaction Tracking: Logging all client interactions, including emails, calls, and meetings, ensures that consultants have a complete record of communication, which is vital for personalizing future interactions.
- Job Costing and Quoting: Consulting CRMs should allow for detailed job costing and quoting, factoring in specific deliverables, resource requirements, and personnel involved. This helps in creating accurate and profitable quotes.
- Analytics and Reporting: Powerful analytics and reporting tools are essential for understanding the health and performance of client accounts. These tools help in making data-driven decisions and improving business development strategies.
- Automated Workflows: The automation of repetitive tasks such as follow-up emails and task management can save significant time and ensure consistency in client interactions.
- Integration Capabilities: A good CRM should integrate seamlessly with other software tools used by the consulting firm, such as email platforms, project management tools, and financial systems. This ensures a smooth flow of information across different systems.
- Mobile Access: Mobile functionality allows consultants to access client data and project information on the go, ensuring they are always prepared for meetings and can update information in real-time.
- Combined Sales Pipeline and Live Project Data: Integrating sales pipeline data with live project data provides a holistic view of resource demand, revenue, and cash flow, which is crucial for effective resource planning and forecasting.
- Document Storage and Sharing: Efficient document storage and sharing capabilities ensure that all team members have access to the latest project documents and client information, facilitating better collaboration.
- Data Security: Given the sensitive nature of client information, strict data security measures are essential to protect against breaches and ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
Investing in a CRM system tailored for consultants can significantly enhance client relationship management, streamline operations, and provide valuable insights for business development.
Benefits Of CRM Software For Consultants
Like any other software, CRM solutions for consultants come with its own perks. Here are some of the added benefits you may experience with your chosen software.
- Centralized Client Information: A CRM system centralizes all client data, making it easily accessible to all team members. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and can provide consistent, informed service to clients.
- Improved Customer Retention: CRM software helps in maintaining and improving customer relationships by automating follow-ups and reminders. This proactive approach ensures that clients feel valued and are less likely to switch to competitors.
- Enhanced Data Analytics: With built-in analytics tools, CRM software allows consultants to gain insights into client behavior and preferences. This data can be used to tailor services and marketing efforts, leading to more effective client engagement.
- Increased Efficiency: By automating routine tasks such as data entry, scheduling, and follow-ups, CRM software frees up consultants to focus on more strategic activities. This leads to higher productivity and better use of time.
- Better Collaboration: Your chosen CRM will ultimately facilitate better collaboration among team members by providing a unified platform for communication and information sharing. This ensures that everyone is aligned and can work together more effectively to meet client needs.
CRM software offers numerous benefits for consultants, from centralizing client information to improving customer retention and enhancing data analytics. By increasing efficiency and facilitating better collaboration, CRM systems help consulting firms deliver superior service and achieve better business outcomes.
Costs & Pricing Of CRM Software For Consultants
Along with knowing the added benefits of CRM software for consultants, it’s also important to know the pricing of each solution. This section provides an estimate of average CRM software plans and costs for consultants.
Plan Comparison Table for CRM Software for Consultants
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic contact management, limited users, basic reporting, and email support |
| Personal Plan | $7 - $30/user/month | Contact management, email templates and integration, basic automation, and a mobile app |
| Business Plan | $30 - $150/user/month | Advanced automation, multiple pipelines, custom dashboards, analytics, and more integrations |
| Enterprise Plan | $150 - $300/user/month | AI-powered features, extensive customization, advanced analytics, and dedicated support |
Understanding the cost and pricing of CRM software for consultants is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your business needs and budget.
By carefully evaluating the cost against the potential ROI, consultants can choose a CRM that not only fits their financial constraints but also enhances their client management and overall business efficiency.
CRM Software For Consultants FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions I’ve received about CRM software for consultants.
What are the best practices for integrating CRM software with other tools used by consultants?
Integrating CRM software with other tools such as email marketing platforms, project management software, and accounting systems can streamline workflows. Best practices include ensuring data consistency across platforms, using APIs for seamless data transfer, and regularly updating integrations to avoid compatibility issues. Consultants should also train their teams on how to use these integrated systems effectively.
What are the key metrics consultants should track using CRM software?
Consultants should track metrics such as client acquisition cost, client retention rate, and the average value of client engagements. Additionally, tracking the sales pipeline, conversion rates, and the time taken to close deals can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of their sales strategies. These metrics can help consultants make data-driven decisions to improve their business performance.
What security measures should consultants look for in CRM software?
Consultants should ensure that the CRM software they choose has robust security measures such as data encryption, user authentication, and regular security audits. Role-based access control is also important to ensure that sensitive information is only accessible to authorized personnel. Additionally, consultants should look for CRM providers that comply with industry standards and regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA, depending on their specific needs.
How can CRM software improve collaboration among consulting teams?
CRM software facilitates collaboration by providing a shared platform where team members can access client information, share notes, and assign tasks. Features like real-time updates, activity feeds, and document sharing ensure that everyone is on the same page. This can improve communication and coordination among team members, leading to more efficient project management and better client outcomes.
What are the common challenges consultants face when implementing CRM software, and how can they overcome them?
Common challenges include resistance to change, data migration issues, and lack of user training. To overcome these challenges, consultants should involve their teams in the selection process to ensure buy-in, plan a phased implementation to manage data migration smoothly, and invest in comprehensive training programs. Regular feedback and continuous improvement can also help in addressing any issues that arise post-implementation.
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