How to Import a Contacts File in Outlook

There are many ways to import a list of contacts into Outlook 97, 98 or 2000. Some are direct, and some require several steps. If one way doesn't work, try another.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computers
• Microsoft Outlook

1. Select Import and Export from the File menu.

2. Click on one of the Import action items to read a description of what that action is. You will probably choose either "Import from another program or file" or "Import Internet Mail and Addresses."

3. Cancel and add file converters from your Office CD or Microsoft's Web site if the description indicates that will be necessary. Install converters and return to the import process.

4. Click Next.

5. Choose the file type you're importing, then click Next.

6. Click Contacts under "Select a destination folder," then click Next.

7. Review the actions and options in the Import list and make changes if desired.

8. Click Finish.

9. Click the Contacts icon in the left-hand window to view your contacts. See if the import was successful.

Tips & Warnings

• If your import was unsuccessful, try exporting from the program containing the contacts file. Try saving the database in both tab-delimited and comma-delimited formats and importing those. Experiment with any export options the program offers.
• Try saving a tab-delimited file as a Word or Excel document, then importing the document into Outlook.
• Try saving a comma-delimited file as a Word document (save as "text only"), then importing the document into Outlook.
• If you already have contacts listed in Outlook, make a backup copy of that file before attempting an import.

[lmsum1984]

on 6/8/2009 I can't use import/export function in Outlook express 2003, what can i do

[Gringolalo]

on 2/18/2008 Excellent article. The "If your import" follow up is what other sources do not include.