How to set up a CRM in 10 minutes (Layer UI)

Estimated time: 10 minutes · 6 steps

Most teams put off setting up a real CRM for years because every CRM they evaluate looks like a 3-week implementation project. Layer UI's CRM ships pre-configured — you import contacts, drag deals, and you're done. This guide walks through the 10-minute setup.

1. Step 1

   Create a free Layer UI workspace

   Visit layerui.io/get-started, enter your email, and pick a workspace name (typically your company name). No credit card required for the Free plan.

2. Step 2

   Open the CRM module

   From the workspace home, click 'CRM' in the left sidebar. You'll see an empty pipeline with default stages (Lead → Qualified → Demo → Proposal → Closed).

3. Step 3

   Import your contacts via CSV

   Export your existing contacts (from a spreadsheet, Notion, HubSpot, or Airtable) as CSV. In Layer UI, click 'Import → CSV', map columns (name, email, company), and confirm. Most lists of <500 contacts import in under 30 seconds.

4. Step 4

   Create your first deal

   Click 'New deal', pick a contact, set a value and stage. Drag the deal card across pipeline stages as you progress. Each deal accumulates an AI-generated activity timeline automatically.

5. Step 5

   Set up an AI follow-up sequence

   Click any contact, then 'Draft follow-up'. Layer UI's AI generates a personalized email based on the deal context. Edit and send (or copy to your email tool).

6. Step 6

   Invite your team

   Click 'Invite teammate' from the workspace settings. The Free plan supports 1 user; additional seats are $12/month each on the Starter plan.