Getting started with a new CRM can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're new to Sage CRM or onboarding fresh team members, knowing what to learn first can make a huge difference in adoption, confidence, and long-term success.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a practical learning path to get up and running with Sage CRM quickly and effectively — with no fluff, just the essentials.

1. Start with Navigation Basics

Before diving into data, start by understanding how to move around the system.

• Explore the interface: Learn where to find key menus, tabs, and records.

• Understand entity types: Companies, People, Opportunities, Cases — get to know what each record type does.

• Use the search bar: Mastering global search early saves time.

Tip: Have new users log in and explore the demo data to build familiarity without pressure.

2. Master the ‘My CRM’ Area

This is your personalized workspace. It's the command center for your daily workflow.

• View tasks, appointments, communications, and documents

• Filter by day, week, or responsibility

• Learn how to add and complete tasks

Tip: Encourage users to start each day in the ‘My CRM’ dashboard — it helps keep priorities aligned.

3. Get Comfortable with Data Entry

Clean, consistent data is the lifeblood of your CRM. Early habits matter.

• Learn how to add a new Company or Person

• Practice logging calls, meetings, and emails

• Understand required fields and how to avoid duplicates

Tip: Create a short checklist for what to fill in when adding new records (e.g. phone, email, category).

4. Work with Opportunities or Cases (Depending on Role)

If you're in sales, start with Opportunities. If you're in customer service, focus on Cases.

• Learn how to create and progress through stages

• Link communications, documents, and tasks to your record

• Understand how status changes trigger notifications or workflows

Tip: Have each department role-play their pipeline using test records.

5. Use and Customize Dashboards

Once you’re tracking data, it’s time to see it.

• Learn how to use out-of-the-box dashboards

• Customize a personal view with your open tasks, recent communications, or KPIs

• Managers can explore team-wide dashboards

Tip: Set one dashboard as your default landing page for quick access.

6. Explore Reports and Filters

The power of CRM lies in making smarter decisions — this starts with filtering data.

• Create and save simple lists (e.g. all open opportunities this month)

• Understand how to export data to Excel

• Use basic report templates to view activity by user, client, or type

Tip: Filters are your friend — they’re the quickest way to slice data for daily use.

7. Set Reminders and Use Workflow (Advanced)

Once you're comfortable with the core, dip your toes into automation.

• Set reminders for follow-ups

• Understand basic workflow rules (e.g. auto-assign tasks or escalate cases)

• Learn how Sage CRM can prompt next steps

Tip: Start simple — even a basic follow-up reminder can dramatically improve user consistency.

Bonus: Invest in Ongoing Learning

• Bookmark the Sage CRM Help Center

• Join the Sage Community Forums

• Subscribe to CRM release updates or ask your admin for training refreshers

Final Thoughts

Sage CRM doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following a structured learning path — from navigation to dashboards to automation — your team can go from hesitant to confident in no time. Start simple, practice daily, and let the system grow with you.