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Getting Started w/ GHL Customer Care

Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts

Import your existing contacts into GHL Customer Care. Map standard fields and create or map values to custom fields to ensure all contact information is captured.

2 min read464 words12 explained imagesUpdated Tue, 24 Mar at 8:12 AM
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On this page
  1. How to Import Contacts
  2. How to Create New Custom Fields
  3. Bulk Contact Actions
  4. Standard Contact Fields During Import

Your audience is the heartbeat of your business. Quickly import your existing contacts from various platforms into one convenient space and start engaging immediately. Having all your contacts together means less hassle, more effective outreach, and building stronger relationships right away.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How to Import Contacts

Streamlining your outreach starts with importing your contacts. Follow these straightforward steps to ensure a smooth import:

  1. Navigate to Contacts.
  2. Click Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box).
    Step 2 of 8: Click Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box) What this shows Step 2 of 8: Click Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box). What this shows Shows what to click for step 2 of 8 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 2 of 8 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you click Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box). This part of the guide covers 4 fields, listed below. The next step is to in Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next. Step 2 of 8Image 1 of 12 What to clickClick Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box).
    Fields in this part of the guide In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click NextImporting Contacts using a CSV fileImporting Contacts and Opportunities via CSVAllow Duplicate Contacts (Contact Deduplication Preferences)
    Buttons and menus referenced ImportContactsNextDownload Sample File.Bulk Import.
    Next stepIn Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next
    All 8 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Contacts.
    2. Click Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box). this image
    3. In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next
    4. Confirm your file format.
    5. Upload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). To download a sample file showing standard Contact Fields, click Download Sample File. Click here to view a list of standard contact fields.
    6. Map your file columns to corresponding Contact fields.
    7. Fill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set consent preferences, etc.) and click Bulk Import.
    8. Wait for the contacts to finish importing.
  3. In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next
    Step 3 of 8: In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next What this shows Step 3 of 8: In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next What this shows Shows what to choose for step 3 of 8 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 3 of 8 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you in Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next. This part of the guide covers 4 fields, listed below. The next step is to confirm your file format. Step 3 of 8Image 2 of 12 What to chooseIn Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next
    Fields in this part of the guide In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click NextImporting Contacts using a CSV fileImporting Contacts and Opportunities via CSVAllow Duplicate Contacts (Contact Deduplication Preferences)
    Buttons and menus referenced ContactsNextImportDownload Sample File.Bulk Import.
    Next stepConfirm your file format.
    All 8 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Contacts.
    2. Click Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box).
    3. In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next this image
    4. Confirm your file format.
    5. Upload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). To download a sample file showing standard Contact Fields, click Download Sample File. Click here to view a list of standard contact fields.
    6. Map your file columns to corresponding Contact fields.
    7. Fill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set consent preferences, etc.) and click Bulk Import.
    8. Wait for the contacts to finish importing.
  4. Confirm your file format.
  5. Upload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). To download a sample file showing standard Contact Fields, click Download Sample File.
    Click here to view a list of standard contact fields.
    Step 5 of 8: Upload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). To download a sample file… What this shows Step 5 of 8: Upload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). What this shows Shows what to click for step 5 of 8 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 5 of 8 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you upload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). To download a sample file showing standard Contact Fields, click Download Sample File. Click here to view a list of standard contact fields. This part of the guide covers 4 fields, listed below. The next step is to map your file columns to corresponding Contact fields. Step 5 of 8Image 3 of 12 What to clickUpload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). To download a sample file showing standard Contact Fields, click Download Sample File. Click here to view a list of standard contact fields.
    Fields in this part of the guide In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click NextImporting Contacts using a CSV fileImporting Contacts and Opportunities via CSVAllow Duplicate Contacts (Contact Deduplication Preferences)
    Buttons and menus referenced Download Sample File.ContactsImportNextBulk Import.
    Next stepMap your file columns to corresponding Contact fields.
    All 8 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Contacts.
    2. Click Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box).
    3. In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next
    4. Confirm your file format.
    5. Upload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). To download a sample file showing standard Contact Fields, click Download Sample File. Click here to view a list of standard contact fields. this image
    6. Map your file columns to corresponding Contact fields.
    7. Fill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set consent preferences, etc.) and click Bulk Import.
    8. Wait for the contacts to finish importing.
  6. Map your file columns to corresponding Contact fields.
    • If you have non-standard data, create a new custom field.
    • Or select "Don't import data in unmatched columns".
      Step 2 of 2: Or select "Don't import data in unmatched columns" What this shows Step 2 of 2: Or select "Don't import data in unmatched columns". What this shows Shows what to choose for step 2 of 2 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 2 of 2 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you or select "Don't import data in unmatched columns". This part of the guide covers 4 fields, listed below. Step 2 of 2Image 4 of 12 What to chooseOr select "Don't import data in unmatched columns".
      Fields in this part of the guide In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click NextImporting Contacts using a CSV fileImporting Contacts and Opportunities via CSVAllow Duplicate Contacts (Contact Deduplication Preferences)
      Buttons and menus referenced ContactsImportNextDownload Sample File.Bulk Import.
      All 2 steps in this procedure
      1. If you have non-standard data, create a new custom field.
      2. Or select "Don't import data in unmatched columns". this image
  7. Fill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set consent preferences, etc.) and click Bulk Import.

    Step 7 of 8: Fill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set… What this shows Step 7 of 8: Fill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set consent preferences, etc.) and click Bulk Import. What this shows Shows what to fill in for step 7 of 8 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 7 of 8 in the "How to Import Contacts" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you fill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set consent preferences, etc.) and click Bulk Import. This part of the guide covers 4 fields, listed below. The next step is to wait for the contacts to finish importing. Step 7 of 8Image 5 of 12 What to fill inFill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set consent preferences, etc.) and click Bulk Import.
    Fields in this part of the guide In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click NextImporting Contacts using a CSV fileImporting Contacts and Opportunities via CSVAllow Duplicate Contacts (Contact Deduplication Preferences)
    Buttons and menus referenced Bulk Import.ContactsImportNextDownload Sample File.
    Next stepWait for the contacts to finish importing.
    All 8 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Contacts.
    2. Click Import (the icon looks like a downward arrow pointing into a box).
    3. In Imports-1, Select Contacts and click Next
    4. Confirm your file format.
    5. Upload your file (CSV files up to 50MB). To download a sample file showing standard Contact Fields, click Download Sample File. Click here to view a list of standard contact fields.
    6. Map your file columns to corresponding Contact fields.
    7. Fill in the import details (name your import, create lists, set consent preferences, etc.) and click Bulk Import. this image
    8. Wait for the contacts to finish importing.
  8. Wait for the contacts to finish importing.

Ready for the next step? Learn more:

Next, you can start segmenting your audience for targeted engagement!

How to Create New Custom Fields

Personalize your contact data to match your unique business needs. Creating custom fields lets you capture exactly the information you find valuable, allowing for precise targeting and richer insights.

Here's how to set up your custom fields:

  1. Navigate to Settings > Custom Fields.
  2. Click Add Field.
    Step 2 of 5: Click Add Field What this shows Step 2 of 5: Click Add Field. What this shows Shows what to click for step 2 of 5 in the "How to Create New Custom Fields" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 2 of 5 in the "How to Create New Custom Fields" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you click Add Field. For context, this section explains: Personalize your contact data to match your unique business needs. Creating custom fields lets you capture exactly the information you find valuable, allowing for precise targeting and richer insights. The navigation path used here is Settings > Custom Fields. This part of the guide covers 1 field, listed below. The next step is to select the type of field you need. Step 2 of 5Path: Settings > Custom FieldsImage 6 of 12 What to clickClick Add Field.
    Fields in this part of the guide How to Use Custom Fields
    Buttons and menus referenced Add FieldSettings > Custom FieldsSave
    Next stepSelect the type of field you need.
    All 5 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Settings > Custom Fields.
    2. Click Add Field. this image
    3. Select the type of field you need.
    4. Fill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.).
    5. Click Save.
  3. Select the type of field you need.
    Step 3 of 5: Select the type of field you need What this shows Step 3 of 5: Select the type of field you need. What this shows Shows what to fill in for step 3 of 5 in the "How to Create New Custom Fields" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 3 of 5 in the "How to Create New Custom Fields" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you select the type of field you need. For context, this section explains: Personalize your contact data to match your unique business needs. Creating custom fields lets you capture exactly the information you find valuable, allowing for precise targeting and richer insights. The navigation path used here is Settings > Custom Fields. This part of the guide covers 1 field, listed below. The next step is to fill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.). Step 3 of 5Path: Settings > Custom FieldsImage 7 of 12 What to fill inSelect the type of field you need.
    Fields in this part of the guide How to Use Custom Fields
    Buttons and menus referenced Settings > Custom FieldsAdd FieldSave
    Next stepFill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.).
    All 5 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Settings > Custom Fields.
    2. Click Add Field.
    3. Select the type of field you need. this image
    4. Fill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.).
    5. Click Save.
  4. Fill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.).
    Step 4 of 5: Fill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.) What this shows Step 4 of 5: Fill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.). What this shows Shows what to fill in for step 4 of 5 in the "How to Create New Custom Fields" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 4 of 5 in the "How to Create New Custom Fields" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you fill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.). The navigation path used here is Settings > Custom Fields. This part of the guide covers 1 field, listed below. The next step is to click Save. Step 4 of 5Path: Settings > Custom FieldsImage 8 of 12 What to fill inFill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.).
    Fields in this part of the guide How to Use Custom Fields
    Buttons and menus referenced Settings > Custom FieldsAdd FieldSave
    Next stepClick Save.
    All 5 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Settings > Custom Fields.
    2. Click Add Field.
    3. Select the type of field you need.
    4. Fill in the field details (name, group, placeholder, etc.). this image
    5. Click Save.
  5. Click Save.

Learn more:

Next, leverage your custom fields to enhance your campaigns and messaging!

Bulk Contact Actions

Effortlessly manage large groups of contacts with powerful bulk actions. Whether you're adding tags, sending emails, or initiating automations, bulk actions save you time and amplify your efficiency.

Here's how you do it:

  1. Navigate to Contacts.
    Step 1 of 4: Navigate to Contacts What this shows Step 1 of 4: Navigate to Contacts. What this shows Shows where to go for step 1 of 4 in the "Bulk Contact Actions" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 1 of 4 in the "Bulk Contact Actions" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you navigate to Contacts. For context, this section explains: Effortlessly manage large groups of contacts with powerful bulk actions. Whether you're adding tags, sending emails, or initiating automations, bulk actions save you time and amplify your efficiency. This part of the guide covers 1 field, listed below. The next step is to apply filters to narrow down your audience. Step 1 of 4Image 9 of 12 Where to goNavigate to Contacts.
    Fields in this part of the guide Bulk Activities: Adding Contact Tags to Multiple Contacts
    Buttons and menus referenced Contacts
    Next stepApply filters to narrow down your audience.
    All 4 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Contacts. this image
    2. Apply filters to narrow down your audience.
    3. Select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts.
    4. Click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email).
  2. Apply filters to narrow down your audience.
    Step 2 of 4: Apply filters to narrow down your audience What this shows Step 2 of 4: Apply filters to narrow down your audience. What this shows Shows what this covers for step 2 of 4 in the "Bulk Contact Actions" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 2 of 4 in the "Bulk Contact Actions" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you apply filters to narrow down your audience. This part of the guide covers 1 field, listed below. The next step is to select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts. Step 2 of 4Image 10 of 12 What this coversApply filters to narrow down your audience.
    Fields in this part of the guide Bulk Activities: Adding Contact Tags to Multiple Contacts
    Buttons and menus referenced Contacts
    Next stepSelect checkboxes next to your chosen contacts.
    All 4 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Contacts.
    2. Apply filters to narrow down your audience. this image
    3. Select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts.
    4. Click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email).
  3. Select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts.
    Step 3 of 4: Select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts What this shows Step 3 of 4: Select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts. What this shows Shows what to choose for step 3 of 4 in the "Bulk Contact Actions" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 3 of 4 in the "Bulk Contact Actions" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts. This part of the guide covers 1 field, listed below. The next step is to click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email). Step 3 of 4Image 11 of 12 What to chooseSelect checkboxes next to your chosen contacts.
    Fields in this part of the guide Bulk Activities: Adding Contact Tags to Multiple Contacts
    Buttons and menus referenced Contacts
    Next stepClick a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email).
    All 4 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Contacts.
    2. Apply filters to narrow down your audience.
    3. Select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts. this image
    4. Click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email).
  4. Click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email).
    Step 4 of 4: Click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send… What this shows Step 4 of 4: Click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email). What this shows Shows what to click for step 4 of 4 in the "Bulk Contact Actions" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". This screenshot accompanies step 4 of 4 in the "Bulk Contact Actions" section of "Getting Started - Import Existing Contacts". At this point in the walkthrough you click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email). This part of the guide covers 1 field, listed below. Step 4 of 4Image 12 of 12 What to clickClick a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email).
    Fields in this part of the guide Bulk Activities: Adding Contact Tags to Multiple Contacts
    Buttons and menus referenced Contacts
    All 4 steps in this procedure
    1. Navigate to Contacts.
    2. Apply filters to narrow down your audience.
    3. Select checkboxes next to your chosen contacts.
    4. Click a bulk action button (e.g., Add to Automation, Send SMS, Send Email). this image

Learn more:

Standard Contact Fields During Import

Below is a list of the standard contact fields that can be used when importing contacts:

  • Contact ID
  • Name
  • First Name
  • Last Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Contact Owner
  • Contact Source
  • Contact Type
  • Business Name
  • Phone
  • Email
  • Business Name
  • Address
  • State
  • City
  • Postal Code
  • Country
  • DND
  • Time Zone
  • Website
  • Additional Email
  • Additional Phones
  • Notes

Next, explore automation tools to supercharge your outreach!

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