How to Use Copper CRM: Best CRM Tool in 2026?

Quick Start

This guide covers every Copper CRM feature:

• Getting Started — Create your account and connect Google Workspace
• How to Use Automated Tasks — Set task reminders for follow-ups and contract renewals so nothing slips
• How to Use Email Templates — Reuse your best messages with merge fields for fast personal outreach
• How to Use Create Workflows — Build workflow automation that moves records forward without manual clicks
• How to Use Import Data — Move contacts and companies from spreadsheets into your first CRM cleanly
• How to Use Pipelines — Drag opportunities through pipeline stages that mirror your real sales process
• How to Use Track Leads — Score, segment, and track leads until they are ready to buy
• How to Use Sales Reporting — Turn raw activity data into insight your sales team can act on
• How to Use Google Workspace CRM — Work from your Gmail inbox with Google Calendar, Docs, and Drive
• How to Use Manage Projects — Run delivery work inside the same records that hold your customers

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I have used Copper CRM for two years across two small sales teams.

I tested every feature in this tutorial myself, including the messy parts.

Copper CRM is built for businesses that already run on Google Workspace.

Most users stop at contacts and never touch the automation underneath.

This guide shows you how to use Copper CRM feature by feature.

Step by step, with real screenshots and the shortcuts I actually use.

Copper CRM Tutorial

This How to Use Copper CRM tutorial walks through the whole process, from your first login to sales reporting.

Copper CRM

The only sales CRM recommended by Google. Copper lives inside your Gmail inbox, logs email automatically, and kills manual data entry. Start free — no credit card required.

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Getting Started with Copper CRM

Finish this setup once and every feature below will work.

It takes about three minutes.

Here is what to expect on your first login:

Now let us walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to the Copper website and click Start Free Trial.

Sign up with the Google account your team already uses for email.

✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for the confirmation email.

Step 2: Install the Chrome Extension

Copper is a browser tool, so there is nothing to download.

Add the Chrome extension and grant access to Gmail and Google Calendar.

Copper also offers a mobile app for iOS and Android.

Here is what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The Copper sidebar appears on the right of Gmail.

Step 3: Complete Initial Setup

Name your pipeline stages and set your contact types.

Copper’s free Crash Course covers this setup with technical instructions and a workbook.

The course also includes a module on training your team.

How to Use Copper CRM Automated Tasks

Automated Tasks lets you set task reminders for follow-ups and contract renewals so nothing slips.

Automated Tasks handle the small follow-ups that sales reps forget under pressure.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open a Record

Open any person, lead, company, or opportunity in Copper.

Click the Tasks panel on the right side.

Step 2: Create the Task

Write a short action, pick an owner, and set a due date.

Link the task to the deal so context travels with it.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The task appears in the record and in your task list.

Step 3: Add a Trigger

Attach the task to a pipeline stage change or a contract renewal date.

Copper then creates it for you every time that event fires.

How to Use Copper CRM Email Templates

Email Templates lets you reuse your best messages with merge fields for fast personal outreach.

Email Templates let you send the same proven message to many prospects at once.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open the Template Library

Go to Settings, then Email Templates inside Copper.

Click Create Template to start a new one.

Step 2: Insert Merge Fields

Drop merge fields like first name and company into the body.

Copper fills each field from your contacts when the email sends.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your merge fields preview with real contact names, not placeholders.

Step 3: Send in Bulk

Filter your People list, select the segment, and choose your template.

Track opens and email responses from the activity feed.

How to Create Copper CRM Workflows

Create Workflows lets you build workflow automation that moves records forward without manual clicks.

Workflow automation replaces the repetitive admin that eats your day to day work.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open Workflow Automation

Head to Settings and choose Workflow Automation.

Pick the pipeline or object you want to automate.

Step 2: Set the Trigger

Choose an event such as a stage change or a new lead.

Keep one trigger per workflow so the logic stays readable.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The workflow shows an active status with a recent run count.

Step 3: Choose the Action

Add actions like task creation, field updates, or an email alert.

Turn the workflow on and watch one live record run through it.

How to Import Copper CRM Data

Import Data lets you move contacts and companies from spreadsheets into your first CRM cleanly.

Importing data is the first real step when Copper becomes your first CRM.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Clean the Spreadsheet

Export your list to Google Sheets or CSV first.

Give every column a plain header like Email or Company.

Step 2: Match the Fields

Open Settings, choose Import, and upload the file.

Map each column to the matching Copper field on screen.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your record count matches the spreadsheet row count.

Step 3: Review and Confirm

Run the import, then spot-check twenty records for accuracy.

Copper automatically matches People to Companies using the email domain.

How to Use Copper CRM Pipelines

Pipelines lets you drag opportunities through pipeline stages that mirror your real sales process.

Pipelines give your sales process a visual, drag-and-drop shape everyone understands.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Name Your Stages

Open Settings and edit the default pipeline stages.

Use the stage names your sales team already says out loud.

Step 2: Add an Opportunity

Create an opportunity from a qualified lead or an existing person.

Set the value, close date, and owner.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your stage names appear across the top of the pipeline board.

Step 3: Move the Deal

Drag the card forward as the customer commits.

Each move can fire automation, so the whole process keeps running.

How to Use Copper CRM Track Leads

Track Leads lets you score, segment, and track leads until they are ready to buy.

Lead management decides which prospects deserve your attention this week.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Collect the Leads

Capture leads from your website form, Gmail inbox, or the Chrome extension.

Every lead lands in one queue instead of scattered apps.

Step 2: Score and Segment

Apply lead scoring rules to determine which leads look ready to buy.

Segmentation groups them for drip campaigns that feel personal.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Each lead shows a score and a segment tag.

Step 3: Convert When Qualified

Convert the lead into a person and an opportunity.

Copper keeps the full history, including calls and email responses.

How to Use Copper CRM Sales Report

Sales Reporting lets you turn raw activity data into insight your sales team can act on.

Reports show what your sales team actually did, not what it remembers doing.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Pick a Report Type

Open the Reports tab and choose pipeline, activity, or forecast.

Start with pipeline health if you are new to CRM software.

Step 2: Filter the Data

Narrow by owner, date range, pipeline, or contact type.

Save the filtered view so you can reopen it each Monday.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The chart loads with your filters applied.

Step 3: Share the Insight

Export to Google Sheets or schedule an email to your team.

Regular reviews of sales performance metrics reveal trends early.

How to Use Copper CRM Google Workspace CRM

Google Workspace CRM lets you work from your Gmail inbox with Google Calendar, Docs, and Drive.

Copper CRM is the only sales CRM recommended by Google for a reason.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Install the Extension

Add the Copper Chrome extension and grant Google access.

The Copper sidebar now opens beside every message.

Step 2: Add People from Gmail

Open an email and click Add to Copper in the sidebar.

Copper pulls the name, company, and signature details automatically.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The Copper sidebar loads inside Gmail without a second login.

Step 3: Integrate the Rest

Integrate Google Calendar, Google Drive, and Google Docs with your records.

Meetings, files, and notes attach themselves to the right person.

How to Manage Copper CRM Projects

Manage Projects lets you run delivery work inside the same records that hold your customers.

Won deals still need delivery, and Copper keeps that work beside the customer record.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Create a Project

Open the Projects tab and create one from a won opportunity.

Name it after the deliverable, not the client.

Step 2: Break Down the Work

Add internal tasks with owners and dates for each milestone.

Copper’s project tools track deliverables inside the customer record.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The project appears linked to the company record.

Step 3: Track to Delivery

Move tasks along and log every client communication as you go.

The account manager sees the same history the sales rep saw.

Copper CRM Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After two years of daily use, these are the habits that saved me the most time.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• Weekly User Webinar: Copper runs a live webinar open to everyone, and you can attend it as many times as you want.
• Community Forum: Real users answer setup questions faster than support tickets, especially on workflow automation.
• Bulk email from filters: Filter your People list, then send one template to the entire segment in a single action.

Copper CRM Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Importing dirty data

Mistake #2: Building fifteen pipeline stages

Mistake #3: Skipping lead scoring

Copper CRM Troubleshooting

Problem: Emails are not logging automatically

Cause: The Chrome extension lost its Google permissions after a password change.

Fix: Remove the extension, reinstall it, and re-authorise Gmail access. Then send one test email and confirm it appears in the activity feed.

Problem: Duplicate contacts after an import

Cause: Your file used a different email column than the existing records.

Fix: Open the Merge Duplicates tool under Settings. Match on email address, review the pairs, and merge. Re-import only the missing rows afterwards.

Problem: A workflow stopped firing

Cause: Someone renamed a pipeline stage the workflow was watching.

Fix: Open Workflow Automation, check the trigger, and re-select the current stage name. Save, then move one test deal to confirm it runs.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact Copper CRM support or post in the Community Forum.

What is Copper CRM?

Copper CRM is customer relationship management software built for Google Workspace users.

Think of it as a sales layer that sits on top of Gmail.

A CRM is an essential part of modern selling.

The end goal is fewer manual processes and more time with customers.

It is the only sales CRM recommended by Google, and that integration is the whole point.

Copper automatically populates records with data from your Google apps, so manual entry mostly disappears.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Automated Tasks: Task reminders for follow-ups, renewals, and every promise you make on calls
• Email Templates: Reusable messages with merge fields for efficient mass outreach
• Create Workflows: Rules that update records and assign work without a person clicking
• Import Data: A guided path for importing data from spreadsheets into Copper
• Pipelines: Customizable, drag-and-drop pipeline stages that match your sales process
• Track Leads: Lead management with scoring, segments, and clean conversion
• Sales Reporting: Custom reports that track team activity for real accountability
• Google Workspace CRM: Deep integration with Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, and Google Docs
• Manage Projects: Project tracking for deliverables inside the customer record

For a full review, see our Copper CRM review.

Copper CRM Pricing

Here is what Copper CRM costs in 2026:

Free trial: Yes, 14 days with no credit card required.

Money-back guarantee: No formal refund window, so test properly during the trial.

Pricing is per person, so costs climb quickly for a growing sales team.

Annual billing lowers the per-seat rate, which matters when you are investing for a full year.

💰 Best Value: Professional — workflow automation and custom reporting make a huge impact on daily sales work.

Copper CRM vs Alternatives

How does Copper compare? Here is the competitive line-up:

Watch this comparison:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: HubSpot — more features and a free tier for most businesses
• Best budget: Capsule CRM — real pipelines at a low price per person
• Best for beginners: Copper CRM — it looks and behaves like Gmail
• Best for business development: Salesforce — deepest reporting and forecasting at scale

🎯 Copper CRM Alternatives

Looking for Copper CRM alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 GoHighLevel: All-in-one agency platform with funnels, drip campaigns, and white-label access.
• 💰 Keap: Small business automation with built-in payments and strong email marketing.
• 🎨 ActiveCampaign: Best-in-class email automation and drip campaigns with a light CRM attached.
• 🌟 HubSpot: Generous free tier and the deepest marketing toolset for growing companies.
• ⚡ ClickFunnels: Landing pages and checkout flows for businesses selling one product or service.
• 👶 Folk: Lightweight contact management for founders who want a friendly first CRM.
• 🔥 Instantly: Cold outreach at scale with inbox warmup and reply tracking.
• 🔧 ClickUp: Project work and sales tracking inside one flexible tool.
• 📊 Monday CRM: Colorful boards that non-technical sales teams pick up quickly.
• ⭐ Capsule CRM: Simple, affordable contact and pipeline tracking for very small teams.
• 💼 Insightly: CRM plus project delivery, with deeper reporting than Copper.
• 🎯 Freshsales CRM: Built-in phone, chat, and AI lead scoring at a friendly price.
• 🏢 Salesforce: Endless customization for large enterprise sales teams.
• 🔒 Zendesk: Support-first platform for teams focused on customer service.

For the full list, see our Copper CRM alternatives guide.

⚔️ Copper CRM Compared

Here is how Copper stacks up against each competitor:

• Copper CRM vs GoHighLevel: GoHighLevel wins on marketing breadth. Copper wins for teams living inside Gmail.
• Copper CRM vs Keap: Keap adds payments and invoicing. Copper stays simpler and easier to learn.
• Copper CRM vs ActiveCampaign: ActiveCampaign wins on drip campaigns. Copper wins on Google integration and daily usability.
• Copper CRM vs HubSpot: HubSpot has a free plan and more features. Copper feels lighter to adopt.
• Copper CRM vs ClickFunnels: Different jobs. ClickFunnels sells; Copper manages the relationship afterwards.
• Copper CRM vs Folk: Folk is cheaper and simpler. Copper offers real pipelines and workflow automation.
• Copper CRM vs Instantly: Instantly is built for cold email volume. Copper handles the full relationship.
• Copper CRM vs ClickUp: ClickUp wins on project depth. Copper wins on pipelines and Gmail context.
• Copper CRM vs Monday CRM: Monday is more visual. Copper is more focused on Google-native selling.
• Copper CRM vs Capsule CRM: Capsule costs less per person. Copper offers stronger automation and Google integration.
• Copper CRM vs Insightly: Closest match on paper. Insightly reports better; Copper is easier daily.
• Copper CRM vs Freshsales CRM: Freshsales bundles calling and AI scoring. Copper keeps a cleaner Gmail-first workflow.
• Copper CRM vs Salesforce: Salesforce scales further. Copper needs no admin and works from day one.
• Copper CRM vs Zendesk: Zendesk is a support tool. Copper is a sales CRM with projects.

Start Using Copper CRM Now

You learned how to use every major Copper CRM feature:

• ✅ Automated Tasks
• ✅ Email Templates
• ✅ Create Workflows
• ✅ Import Data
• ✅ Pipelines
• ✅ Track Leads
• ✅ Sales Reporting
• ✅ Google Workspace CRM
• ✅ Manage Projects

Next step: Pick one feature and try it today.

Most people start with Automated Tasks.

It takes less than five minutes and pays for itself the first week.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Copper CRM work?

Copper CRM sits inside your Gmail inbox and Google Workspace apps. It logs emails, calls, and meetings automatically, then organizes them into leads, people, companies, and opportunities you can track.

How to use CRM step by step?

Import your contacts, set your pipeline stages, then log every deal as an opportunity. Add tasks for follow-ups, build one workflow, and review your reports weekly.

What is Copper CRM used for?

Copper CRM is used for lead management, pipeline tracking, and project delivery. Sales teams use it to manage contacts, automate follow-ups, and forecast revenue without manual data entry.

What is the old name of Copper CRM?

Copper was originally called ProsperWorks. The company rebranded to Copper in 2018 while keeping its focus on being the sales CRM recommended by Google.

Does Copper CRM have an app?

Yes. Copper offers a mobile app for iOS and Android, plus a Chrome extension for Gmail. The mobile app covers contacts, tasks, pipelines, and activity logging.