Set Up a Simple CRM Without Paying for Salesforce
You're tracking leads on sticky notes and in your head. You forgot to follow up with that promising customer last week. Salesforce costs $25 per user per month and takes weeks to learn. Here's how to set up a free, simple CRM that actually helps you close more deals.
Tools You'll Need
| Tool | What It Does | Cost | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| HubSpot CRM | Free CRM for tracking contacts, deals, and follow-ups | Free | Get it → |
| Claude or ChatGPT | Helps set up your pipeline stages and email templates | Free | Get it → |
The Walkthrough
Step 1: Sign Up for HubSpot CRM
What to do: Go to HubSpot CRM and create a free account. The free tier includes contact management, deal tracking, and email templates — no credit card needed.
Why you’re doing it: HubSpot’s free CRM is the best free option available. It’s powerful enough for businesses with up to 1,000 contacts and intuitive enough to learn in an afternoon.
Step 2: Set Up Your Pipeline
What to do: Ask Claude: “What are the ideal pipeline stages for a [type of business] CRM? I need 4–6 stages from first contact to closed deal.” Then create those stages in HubSpot.
Why you’re doing it: A pipeline gives you a visual view of every opportunity and where it stands.
Step 3: Import Your Existing Contacts
What to do: Export contacts from your email, phone, or spreadsheets. Import into HubSpot using their CSV import tool.
Why you’re doing it: Your CRM only works if your contacts are in it.
Step 4: Set Follow-Up Reminders
What to do: For every active deal, set a task with a follow-up date. HubSpot sends you reminders automatically.
Why you’re doing it: Following up is the single highest-ROI sales activity. A CRM makes sure you never forget.
What to Do If It Doesn’t Work
- Problem: “HubSpot feels overwhelming.” — Ignore 80% of the features. Use only: Contacts, Deals, and Tasks. That’s all you need.
- Need more help? HubSpot Support or email us at hello@thenewsbakery.com.