Prevent automatic formatting
Set the phone column to text before pasting data. Spreadsheet software may otherwise remove a plus sign, strip leading zeros, or display long values in scientific notation. Inspect the cell value as well as its appearance. Changing a display format after information has been lost does not necessarily restore the original number.
Preserve country context
Include the country calling code when known. Do not infer it from a name or language. A local number without country context can be ambiguous. If extensions are present, decide how to retain them without confusing them with the main number. Keep unknown details visible as review items rather than making guesses.
Inspect the exported text
Open the CSV in a plain-text editor and check representative rows. Look at international numbers, leading zeros, blank values, and punctuation. Reopening a CSV in a spreadsheet may apply formatting again, which can hide the difference between the saved text and the value displayed on screen.
Verify a small sample
Import several fictional or approved test records and compare them with the source. Correct preparation or mapping if values change. Happitap’s import mapping lets you map the phone column; it does not establish that every number is reachable or independently verified. Keep a clear separation between formatting checks and contact verification.
Continue reading
Guide / Lead data
How to prepare a lead spreadsheet for CSV import
A practical guide to cleaning names, email addresses, and phone numbers before importing a lead spreadsheet.
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The minimum useful lead record for a small team
Start with enough information to act, then add detail when it becomes useful.
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How to review duplicate leads before an import
Use repeatable matching rules and review uncertain matches before combining records.
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