How do I import a lead list into the CRM?
Steps to import a lead list into the CRM.
You have two paths into the CRM. Pick based on what you want to do with the leads.
| Path | Use when |
|---|---|
| Direct CRM import | You want the contacts in People/Companies/Deals but not to email them from a campaign (yet). |
| Campaign upload | You want to email the leads — the CRM populates as replies come in. |
Direct CRM import (CSV)
- Go to CRM → pick the section you want to import into (People, Companies, or Deals).
- Click Import People, Import Companies, or Import Deals at the top right.
- Upload a CSV using the column names the CRM expects (see Importing Data for the exact schema).
- Map any unusual column headers on the preview screen.
- Review the import summary, then confirm the import.
The CRM checks for existing records during import. Depending on the match and mapped fields, the summary may show records that will be created, updated, or skipped.
Campaign upload (for outreach)
If the goal is to send cold email to this list, upload through the Cold Email Agent instead:
- Cold Email Agent → New Campaign → lead source: Upload Your Own.
- Upload the file (up to 100MB, 20,000 rows).
- Complete the campaign setup. Launch it only when you are ready to start sending.
- Interested replies and booked meetings can create or update People and Deals in the CRM automatically.
Campaign CSV uploads don't cost credits.
Clean the list before either path
Deduplicate across your existing data before upload. Campaign uploads and CRM imports both check for existing records, but the result depends on the upload path and the matching fields.
What the CSV should contain
For a People import, the minimum required CRM field is Name. You can map this from a full-name column or from first-name and last-name columns. Email, phone, job title, company, social URLs, address, and tags are optional but recommended.
Full field list including the Companies and Deals schemas is on Importing Data.