March – Innovator
Tracy Ericksen, virtual client at Park, founded the Kiwi Group to help make technologies work the right way for your business. Tracy focuses on helping organizations make money and build positive, results-driven customer relationships. Read on for more about Tracy & the Kiwi Group.
Every business has a story, tell us yours.
I think all of us have had experiences with technology where it was intended to make our lives easier but it actually created more work or it was never used. I have been an end user and administrator of CRM systems like Salesforce.com, ACT and Microsoft Dynamics. I witnessed personally how a CRM had a very real impact on my ability to do my job and deliver the results that were expected of me.
This experience has made me passionate about making technology easier for the end user and helping leaders drive value from their investment. I created the Kiwi Group Inc. to help small and medium sized businesses and nonprofits choose the right CRM to fit their needs.
We take a holistic approach to CRM implementations and recognize that the client’s strategic and operational goals should drive the technology design and implementation and not the other way around.
You were chosen as this month’s Innovator Client. What does being an Innovator mean to you?
Solving client problems in a unique way that delivers results. Time and money are in short supply for most businesses and we help them to make the most of both.
No one likes to brag about their business, but if you HAD TO . . .
You are right that most Minnesotans don’t like to brag! : – )
So many companies have implementation scars from bad experiences they have had implementing other systems. We are like the physician who really takes the time to listen to you, which is rare today when everything seems to be about the bottom line rather than truly solving your problems. When business owners meet my team they respond with a sigh of relief because they appreciate our business vs. a tech approach to delivering effective CRM systems. We thrive on finding creative ways to ensure ongoing system success in our training program. Some of our deliverables that we have received kudos on is our customized training videos and user friendly manuals.
We learn from our mistakes, especially in business. Give us some words of wisdom.
Sometimes the customer is not always right and it’s your job as their partner to step out of your comfort zone to let them know that. They are expecting your leadership to help them to avoid pitfalls that could negatively impact their business.
Share the best advice you ever received.
The best business advice that comes to mind is if you are not adding value to your clients, get out of the way!
Describe your perfect day off.
Depending upon the time of year, I love to be able to get outside to cross country ski or run around the lakes and then enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner with family and friends.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
When I was young, naïve and fearless I hitchhiked throughout Australia and New Zealand because I was on a shoe string budget and was very trusting of everyone. Luckily, I encountered wonderful people overseas but I wouldn’t recommend hitchhiking anywhere to a young person (or anyone).
Together we are stronger. Tell us something you like about being our client.
I love the friendly staff, the prime locations and the ability to secure a conference room when I need it. It’s a perfect service for a company of my size. I plan to become more engaged in the great networking opportunities that you offer as well.
If you could work anywhere under the sun, where would you choose?
Before founding Kiwi Group I spent a majority of my time out of state. Since starting Kiwi Group I have had the luxury of doing business in my own town and I LOVE it mostly because of the people here. There is fantastic opportunity here and the culture of a strong work ethic, honesty and integrity align with my values.
How can people CONNECT with you?
Thank you for asking. If you know of businesses or nonprofit organizations that are considering implementing a cloud based CRM system like Salesforce.com, ACT!, Microsoft Dynamics, ZOHO or Pipedrive I would love the chance to meet with them. Also, if you know of someone who would like to optimize their current CRM I would love to speak with them.
You can reach me by calling 612.220.1114 or visit my website at: www.Kiwigroupinc.com
