How to Import Contacts into LACRM

Importing contacts into Less Annoying CRM (LACRM) is a straightforward process that allows you to transfer your contact data from spreadsheets, other CRMs, or even your phone’s contact list. Whether you’re migrating from another system or just starting out, this guide will walk you through the steps to ensure a smooth import experience.

Preparing Your Spreadsheet for Import

Before you begin the import process, it’s essential to ensure that your spreadsheet is properly formatted:

1. File Format:

   • LACRM supports CSV, XLS, and XLSX file formats.
   • Ensure your file is saved in one of these formats.

2. Column Headers:

   • Make sure your spreadsheet contains clear and relevant column headers in the first row. Each column should represent one field, such as “First Name,” “Last Name,” “Email,” and “Phone Number.”

   • Delete any unnecessary or blank rows and columns to avoid confusion during the import.

   • Refer to LACRM’s guide on preparing CSV files for detailed instructions.

3. One Contact Per Row:

   • Each row should represent a single contact. All the information related to that contact should be contained within that row.

4. Custom Fields:

   • If your spreadsheet contains data that doesn’t match LACRM’s default fields (e.g., “Assistant’s Name”), you can create custom fields in LACRM before starting the import.
   • Alternatively, you can map unmatched data to the “Background Info” field during the import.

Running the Import

Once your spreadsheet is ready, follow these steps to import your contacts into LACRM:

1. Navigate to the Import Tool:

   • In your LACRM account, mouse over the Add button and select Import Contacts from the dropdown menu.

2. Choose Your File:

   • Select Import a spreadsheet and click to upload your prepared file.

3. Select Data Type:

   • Indicate whether your file contains contacts, companies, or both. If it contains both, choose Both contacts and companies and proceed.

4. Map Your Fields:

   • LACRM will prompt you to map your file’s columns to its fields. Refer to LACRM’s guide on field mapping for detailed instructions.
   • Start by mapping the primary fields like “Contact Name” and “Company Name.”
   • For columns that don’t match an existing field, create a custom field or map them to the “Background Info” field.

5. Review and Finalize:

   • Double-check your mappings to ensure accuracy.
   • Click Finalize the Import to begin the import process.

6. View Imported Contacts:

   • Once the import is complete, you’ll see a confirmation page with examples of your newly imported contacts.
   • You can organize these contacts by adding them to groups or assigning them to pipelines.

Post-Import Actions

After importing your contacts, LACRM offers several options to help you organize and manage your data:

• Group Your Contacts:
  • You can add imported contacts to a group to easily access them later.
• Assign to Users:
  • If you have multiple users in your CRM, you can assign the imported contacts to specific users.
• Add to a Pipeline:
  • If the imported contacts are part of an ongoing sales process, you can add them to a relevant pipeline.
• Undo an Import:
  • If you made a mistake during the import, LACRM allows you to undo the import right away. Navigate to the Import History page and click Undo Import.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues you might encounter during the import process and how to resolve them:

• Duplicate Records:

  • LACRM’s importer doesn’t automatically merge duplicates. If your file contains duplicate records, you’ll need to clean up the data beforehand.

• Unmapped Columns:

  • Ensure all necessary columns are mapped to fields in LACRM. Unmapped columns won’t be imported.

• Improper Field Types:

  • Make sure that the data type in each column matches the field type in LACRM. For example, phone numbers should be mapped to phone fields, and dates should be formatted according to LACRM’s date format.

• Import Limits:

  • LACRM allows you to run three imports with the help of their customer service team. After that, you can run imports on your own as needed.

Migrating from Other CRMs

If you’re transitioning from another CRM to LACRM, here’s how you can migrate your data:

1. Export Data from Your Current CRM:
   • Most CRMs allow you to export contacts and companies as a CSV or Excel file.
2. Format the File:
   • Ensure the exported file is formatted correctly as per LACRM’s requirements.
3. Run the Import:
   • Follow the steps outlined above to import the data into LACRM.
4. Verify Data Integrity:
   • After the import, review your data to ensure everything was imported correctly.

Using Third-Party Tools

If you frequently gather leads from LinkedIn or other online sources, consider using third-party tools like LinkLess, our Chrome extension for Less Annoying CRM. With LinkLess, you can:

1. Get Verified Email Addresses:
   • Collect verified contact information directly from LinkedIn profiles.
2. Add Contacts in One Click:
   • When viewing a LinkedIn profile, click the “Add to CRM” button to instantly create a new contact in LACRM.
3. Save Time:
   • Eliminate manual data entry and streamline your contact management process.

Learn more about LinkLess and how it can improve your workflow.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Importing contacts into Less Annoying CRM is an essential step in setting up your CRM for success. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently migrate your data and start managing your contacts with ease.

If you’re looking to enhance your contact management experience, consider using LinkLess, our Chrome extension designed to make importing leads from LinkedIn quick and effortless.

Need more help? LACRM’s customer service team is always available to assist with your first three imports or answer any questions you might have. Happy importing!