Top CRM Features UK Consultants Actually Use (And Why They Matter)

Not Every CRM Feature Matters — But These Do

If you're a consultant working in the UK — whether in marketing, finance, IT, HR, or business strategy — you've likely looked into CRM tools.

But let’s be honest: most CRM platforms are packed with features you’ll never touch.

What you actually need is a simple, powerful system that helps you manage relationships, deliver work, and get paid — without wasting time on overly complex tools designed for large sales teams.

In this guide, we’ll break down the CRM features UK consultants really use, why they matter, and how SoloCRM delivers exactly what you need.

1. Lead Management That Makes Sense

Every consultancy starts with a conversation. But without structure, leads get lost in inboxes, forgotten in spreadsheets, or followed up too late.

What UK consultants use:

• Lead tracking by status (new, contacted, in progress, etc.)

• Filters for budget, urgency, and decision-makers

• Notes, tags, and communication history

Why it matters:
You stay on top of opportunities without letting anything slip through the cracks.

With SoloCRM:
You can track your leads from first contact to signed proposal. AI helps score them based on fit, so you know who to prioritise.

2. Proposal Creation (Without Copy-Paste Hell)

Consultants write proposals constantly — but many still use Word or Google Docs, building from old templates that need constant tweaking.

What UK consultants want:

• Easy-to-edit templates

• Branding control

• Scope of work, timelines, and investment breakdown

• Version control and revision history

Why it matters:
Proposals that are professional and fast to produce help you close deals more efficiently.

With SoloCRM:
You can generate branded proposals quickly — even using AI if you need a first draft. Proposals are linked to leads or projects, so everything stays organised.

3. Invoicing That Fits UK Tax and Payment Rules

No one likes chasing payments — and clients don’t like confusing invoices. A good CRM should help you bill clearly, accurately, and with UK standards in mind.

What UK consultants use:

• GBP invoicing with VAT

• Stripe or direct bank integration

• Automatic calculations

• Payment reminders

Why it matters:
Clean invoices get paid faster — and reduce headaches when preparing for Self Assessment or HMRC audits.

With SoloCRM:
You can generate professional invoices in just a few clicks, fully compatible with UK accounting. Time logs, fixed-price fees, or retainers — all supported.

4. Time Tracking That Isn’t a Burden

Whether you bill hourly or just want to measure where your time goes, tracking is essential — but only if it’s quick and easy.

What UK consultants actually want:

• Time logs by task or project

• Ability to mark entries as billable or non-billable

• Visibility into where time is spent

• Easy conversion into invoices

Why it matters:
You can protect profitability, stay within scope, and invoice with confidence.

With SoloCRM:
Time tracking is built in. You can log hours as you go or after the fact — and link them to tasks, clients, or invoices in seconds.

5. A Client Portal That Builds Trust

Sharing files via email or Google Drive works — until it doesn’t. Clients expect clarity and professionalism, especially in high-trust relationships like consultancy.

What UK consultants prefer:

• Secure, branded client access

• Project updates

• Invoices and files all in one place

• Feedback and communication channels

Why it matters:
A professional client experience builds trust, sets expectations, and reduces unnecessary emails.

With SoloCRM:
Your clients get a portal where they can log in, view updates, see timelines, pay invoices, and more. You control what they see and when.

6. GDPR Compliance Without Guesswork

Consultants often handle sensitive client data — and under UK law, you’re expected to protect it.

What UK consultants need:

• Secure data storage

• Ability to export or delete client records on request

• Clear privacy practices

• Tools that meet UK GDPR standards

Why it matters:
Non-compliance isn’t just a legal risk — it’s a brand risk.

With SoloCRM:
All data is encrypted and stored securely. You can export or delete records on request and rely on built-in compliance features designed for the UK.

7. AI That Does the Admin Work

Let’s face it — admin tasks like follow-ups, meeting prep, and writing client emails are essential, but time-consuming.

What UK consultants are starting to use:

• AI follow-up email suggestions

• AI-generated meeting agendas

• Lead scoring based on likelihood to convert

• Smart task recommendations

Why it matters:
You spend less time on admin and more time on strategic, paid work.

With SoloCRM:
These tools are built in — not bolted on. You’ll get helpful nudges and ready-to-send messages that actually make your day easier.

Final Thoughts: Focus on What Matters

You don’t need 200 CRM features. You need the right 10 — built for real consultants, not corporate sales teams.

SoloCRM is purpose-built for UK freelancers and service professionals. It gives you the tools you actually use — in a format that doesn’t slow you down.

If you’re tired of bending other platforms to fit your workflow, it might be time to try a CRM that was designed for it.

Start your free trial today and experience a simpler way to run your consulting business.

Try SoloCRM Free