How to Export Contacts to a Spreadsheet
Exporting your contacts allows you to back up your data, transfer it to another system, or prepare it for import into BIGContacts. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for exporting contacts from different platforms and ensuring they are in the correct format.
Why Export Your Contacts?
- Backup & Security – Keep a copy of your contacts for safety and record-keeping.
- Seamless Data Transfer – Move your contacts between different CRMs, email platforms, or spreadsheets.
- Prepare for Import – Ensure your contact list is formatted correctly for BIGContacts or any other system.
When Should You Export Contacts?
Handling contacts across different platforms can lead to duplicate entries, outdated information, or missing details. Exporting allows you to standardize your data, making it easier to search, update, and transfer without errors.
If you're moving to a new CRM, integrating with other tools, or analyzing customer data, exporting ensures your records stay consistent and formatted correctly for easy processing.
For teams that need organized lists for outreach, reporting, or backups, exporting contacts into a CSV file keeps information structured and ready for quick access.
How to Export Contacts from Google & Outlook
Exporting Contacts from Google Contacts
When exporting from Google Contacts, you’ll see two format options. Ensure you select the correct one:
Correct Format: Select CSV for Outlook Only for a file that works with BIGContacts.
Steps to Export from Google Contacts:
- Open Google Contacts and click the Export button in the top-right corner.
- In the pop-up window, check that all contacts are selected.
- Under the Export section, choose CSV for Outlook only.
- Click Export to download the file.
Google Support: Exporting Contacts
Exporting Contacts from Outlook
Steps to Export from Outlook:
- Open Outlook and go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
- Choose Export to a file and click Next.
- Select Comma Separated Values (CSV) as the export format.
- Choose the Contacts folder and click Next.
- Select a location to save the file, then click Finish.
Outlook Support: Export Contacts
Outlook for Mac: Export Guide
Exporting from Popular CRM Platforms
1. HubSpot CRM
- Log in to HubSpot and go to the Contacts tab.
- Click the Actions dropdown in the top right.
- Select Export and choose the format (CSV or Excel).
- Click Export, and your file will be emailed to you for download.
2. Salesforce
- Go to Setup in your Salesforce dashboard.
- Under Data Management, click Export Data.
- Select Contacts from the available options.
- Choose CSV format and click Export.
- You’ll receive an email with a download link once the export is ready.
3. Microsoft Dynamics 365
- Navigate to Contacts under the Sales module.
- Select the contacts you want to export.
- Click on the Export to Excel option.
- Choose the export type: Static Worksheet, Dynamic Worksheet, or Dynamic PivotTable.
- Click Export and save the file.
4. Zoho CRM
- Open Zoho CRM and go to the Contacts module.
- Click the More Options icon (three dots) in the top right.
- Select Export and choose CSV format.
- Click Export, and the file will be saved to your system.
5. Pipedrive CRM
- In your Pipedrive account, go to the Contacts tab.
- Click the Export button in the top right.
- Choose CSV format and select the fields you want to export.
- Click Download, and your contact file will be saved.
6. Freshsales CRM (Freshworks)
- Log in to Freshsales CRM and navigate to the Contacts module.
- Click Export Contacts in the top-right corner.
- Choose the format (CSV or Excel) and select the fields to include.
- Click Export, and your file will be available for download.