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In today’s fast-paced business world, staying organized and delivering a standout client experience isn’t optional—it’s essential. A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system is your behind-the-scenes MVP, built to streamline how you manage clients, track projects, and actually grow your business without drowning in admin chaos.
Picture this: all your client messages, project info, contracts, and invoices—in one place. No more digging through email threads or playing detective with sticky notes.
A solid CRM eliminates the chaos and clears the clutter so you can focus on the big stuff—like making money and making moves. Whether you’re a one-person show or running a small but mighty team, the right CRM keeps your systems smooth and your sanity intact without things slipping through the cracks.
But this isn’t just about staying organized. With built-in automations, your CRM can take care of repetitive tasks like follow-ups, invoicing, and appointment scheduling—without you lifting a finger. That means more time for actual CEO-level work.
Ultimately, a CRM helps you work smarter, not harder. It takes the guesswork out of client management and helps you deliver that five-star experience—even when you’re off the clock.
In this post, we’re breaking down three of our go-to CRMs (HoneyBook, Dubsado, and Aisle Planner). We’ll share what they offer, who they’re best for, and how to choose the one that fits your business like a glove.
5 Key Features to Look for in a CRM
1. Customizable Templates & Workflows
You need a system that doesn’t just fit a business—it fits your business. Look for CRMs that let you create on-brand templates for emails, proposals, contracts, and workflows, creating a client experience that feels seamless and professional from start to finish.
2. User-Friendly Interface
If you need a tech degree to use it, it’s a no. The right CRM should be intuitive enough to learn quickly, train your team with ease, and keep you focused on growth—not troubleshooting.
3. Automation Capabilities
A CRM with solid automation tools can handle follow-up emails, invoices, scheduling, and more—saving you time and reducing the risk of communication errors.
4. Integration with Other Tools
Your CRM should play nice with the rest of your tech stack—calendars, email platforms, payment processors, the works. Switching tabs 47 times a day? Hard pass.
5. Scalability for Growing Businesses
Choose a CRM that can grow with you, whether you’re adding more clients, team members, or features. Nobody has time for a total overhaul every 6 months.
Overview of Popular CRM Options
Not sure which CRM fits your business best? We’ve got you. Below is a breakdown of three fan-favorite CRMs we love working with (HoneyBook, Dubsado, and Aisle Planner), depending on your style, setup, and strategy.
Honeybook
Key Features:
✔︎ All-in-one CRM for client projects & communication
✔︎ Easy-to-set-up workflows with light automation
✔︎ Email, proposal, and contract templates built in
✔︎ Built-in invoicing and payment processing
✔︎ Built-in scheduler + task tracking notes
✔︎ Integrations (Google, QuickBooks, and more)
Best Suited For:
Service-based solopreneurs, creatives and small agencies or businesses who want a user-friendly, all-in-one solution.
Dubsado
Key Features:
✔︎ Full client tracking with detailed records
✔︎ Customizable workflows with conditional logic
✔︎ Create custom proposals & contracts from scratch
✔︎ Advanced invoicing features, payments & time tracking
✔︎ Integrated scheduler with advanced customization
✔︎ Integrates with email, payment systems, & social
Best Suited For:
Service providers with complex client journeys or consultants, agencies, or anyone who loves next-level customization.
Aisle Planner
Key Features:
✔︎ Event-focused CRM with planning tools
✔︎ Limited automations; more manual steps
✔︎ Designed for events; includes proposal templates
✔︎ Budgeting tools + invoices tailored to event services
✔︎ Basic scheduling tools; focus on task lists & timelines
✔︎ Collaboration tools for teams with end-to-end event management
Best Suited For:
Event and wedding planners that live in the details or teams looking for a streamlined, event-first platform.
When choosing a CRM, go with the one that supports your process. Think about what you need most: automations, easy onboarding, next-level customization, or just keeping your head above water.
At the end of the day, the right CRM should save you time, boost your client experience, and give you room to scale—without the burnout.
Here are some resources to help you get started!
Crystal clear on which CRM is right for you, but need help setting it up? That’s where we come in! Check out how we can help set up your system.
Want to DIY your setup? Check out the Rebel CEO™ Training Shop for Templates, Trainings & Tools to Run Your Business Smoothly.
Still on the fence? Test drive a few platforms. Most CRMs offer a free trial—so you can try before you commit.
You’ve got this. We’ll be here when you’re ready to rebel against chaos and streamline like a CEO.
