How to Import Contacts from Excel to Outlook in Few Steps

Why Do We Need to Import Contacts in Outlook from Excel?

Many professionals and businesses maintain contact details in Excel sheets. Because it’s easy to edit and store large volumes of data. However, Excel is not ideal for everyday communication tasks. So, you can’t send emails, schedule meetings, or manage contact groups. That’s where the user switches to Outlook.

Here are some key reasons to import contacts from Excel to Outlook:

• Outlook allows you to email, call, or schedule directly from contact entries.
• Having contacts within Outlook helps you access them across multiple devices if synced with your account.
• Instead of typing email addresses manually, Outlook auto-suggests contacts as you type.
• It’s easier to manage email campaigns, newsletters, and meeting invites with Outlook contacts.
• Outlook contacts can be backed up or synced with other services like Microsoft Exchange or mobile devices.

Top Methods to Import Contacts from Excel to Outlook

There are a few reliable ways to bring your Excel contacts into Outlook, including both manual steps and automated tools. Below, we’ll explore the top methods to help you complete the import without data loss or formatting issues.

Method 01: Import contacts in Outlook from Excel Manually

Users can perform the manual method using Outlook’s built-in Import/Export Wizard. Before starting the import process, make sure your Excel file is formatted correctly. If it is, then follow the given steps to import contacts from Excel to Outlook:

Step 01: Save Excel File as CSV Format

1. Start by opening the Excel file you want to save.
2. Click on File in the top left corner of the window.
3. In the given menu, select Save As.
4. Choose where you want to save the file. 
5. Under Save as type, select CSV.
6. Give your file a name and click Save.

Step 02: Import CSV to MS Outlook

1. Launch the Outlook application on your computer.
2. Click File >>Open & Export>>Import/Export to open the wizard.
3. Choose Import from another program or file, then click Next.
4. Select Comma-Separated Values and click Next.
5. Click Browse, find the CSV file you want to import>> Next.
6. Click Finish to start importing the contacts into Outlook.

After completing these steps, the contacts from your CSV file will be added to your Outlook Contacts folder.

Drawbacks Associated with the Manual Method

The manual method for importing contacts into Outlook has several drawbacks. So, you should  keep in mind the pointers mentioned below: 

• Time-Consuming: It’s slow for large contact lists.
• Risk of Errors: Incorrect field mapping can cause data issues.
• Limited Data Handling: Complex data may not import correctly.
• No Automation: The process must be repeated each time.
• Difficult for Large Datasets: It becomes impractical with large datasets.
• Potential for Data Loss: Errors can result in lost information.

Method 02: Automated Solution to Import Contacts from Excel to Outlook

To simplify the process, you can use the DRS Softech Excel to vCard Converter Tool to add contacts from Excel to Outlook. It can automatically map fields, handle large files, and reduce the chance of errors. This utility supports the conversion of multiple Excel files at once. Moreover, it retains the original formatting of the Excel sheet during the conversion process. Also, it automatically maps Excel fields to corresponding Outlook fields, ensuring accurate data mapping and minimizing the risk of errors. Follow the given steps to convert Excel to vCard file. 

Simple Steps to Import Contacts from Excel to Outlook

1. First, download and install the DRS Softech Excel to vCard Converter Tool. 
2. Now, click on the Browse Excel File button to browse and select the Excel file.
3. In the next panel, you can decide the conversion mode accordingly. Click Next.
4. Then, align the Excel entries with the corresponding vCard fields and click Next.
5. To complete process, choose additional tool options and click the Convert button.

When you get the Excel file as VCF files, then import contacts from Excel to Outlook using the given steps. 

Important Note: Open Outlook and go to File >>Open & Export >> Import/Export >> Import a vCard file (.vcf) >> Next >> Select the file and click Open >> Click Save & Close to complete the process.

Benefits of Using an Automated Solution

• Converts Excel contacts into Outlook with speed and accuracy, eliminating the need for manual data entry.
• It reduces the chances of mistakes that often occur during manual imports, such as incorrect field mapping or missing information.
• Ideal for users who need to transfer large volumes of contacts quickly and easily.
• Also, it maintains data integrity during the conversion, preventing any loss or corruption.

Conclusion

In conclusion, importing contacts from Excel to Outlook is a specific process that can be done in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re using manual methods or the recommended specialized tool, the process can be quick and efficient. By following the steps outlined, you can easily import contacts from Excel to Outlook data without the risk of errors or data loss.