Struggling to keep all your sales and marketing tools aligned? that feeling when you’re jumping between your email, your CRM, and a bunch of other tabs just to get one task done? Well, one of the best ways to streamline everything and get more out of HubSpot is by grabbing the right plugins and extensions. They essentially bring HubSpot’s power directly into the tools you use every single day, like your email inbox or web browser.
This guide is going to walk you through exactly how to download and install those handy HubSpot plugins. We’ll cover the big ones like the Chrome extension and the Outlook add-in, plus touch on some awesome third-party options that can really take your productivity to the next level. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear roadmap to integrate HubSpot seamlessly into your daily routine, whether you’re using the free CRM or one of the paid hubs. Think of it as unlocking a supercharger for your business operations – no more frantic tab-switching, just smooth, efficient work. You’ll be able to track emails, manage contacts, schedule meetings, and even engage on social media directly from where you’re already working. And the best part? A lot of these powerful integrations are available even with HubSpot’s incredibly generous free version.
Why Even Bother with HubSpot Plugins? It’s a Game Changer!
You might be thinking, “Do I really need another plugin?” And honestly, that’s a fair question. But with HubSpot, these aren’t just extra bits of software. they’re essential bridges that connect your CRM to your daily work. Here’s why these little additions make a huge difference:
Boosting Your Productivity Game
Imagine this: You send an important email, and instead of wondering if it was opened, you get a notification the moment your prospect clicks on it. Or you want to schedule a meeting, and instead of back-and-forth emails, you send a link, and it automatically updates your calendar and logs in HubSpot. That’s what plugins do! They cut down on manual tasks, automate logging, and give you real-time insights right where you need them. This means less time on admin and more time focusing on what truly matters: connecting with customers and growing your business.
Keeping Your Data All in One Place
One of the biggest headaches in business is scattered data. Your customer’s email history might be in Outlook, their website activity in HubSpot, and notes from a call in a separate document. HubSpot plugins solve this. When you use the email extensions, for instance, your conversations are automatically logged against the contact record in HubSpot. This creates a unified, 360-degree view of every customer and prospect, making sure everyone on your team has the most up-to-date information at their fingertips. This central “source of truth” helps your sales, marketing, and service teams work together much more effectively.
Making Your Sales & Marketing Smarter
These plugins don’t just save time. they make you smarter. With features like email tracking, you can tell exactly when someone engages with your message, allowing you to follow up at the perfect moment. Email templates and sequences, often integrated via these plugins, help you standardize your outreach and ensure consistent messaging, all while personalizing at scale. For marketing, some extensions let you manage social posts or quickly add contacts from LinkedIn directly into your CRM. It’s about working smarter, not just harder.
Understanding HubSpot Partner Seats
The Essential HubSpot Plugins You Need to Know About
HubSpot offers a few core integrations that are incredibly popular and useful, plus a whole ecosystem of third-party tools. Let’s break down the main players.
HubSpot Sales Email Extension Chrome, Outlook, Gmail
This is probably the most widely used and impactful plugin for most HubSpot users. It brings HubSpot’s sales tools right into your email client, whether you’re using Gmail in Chrome or Microsoft Outlook.
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What it does: It lets you track email opens and clicks, log emails to HubSpot CRM with a single click, use email templates, schedule emails for later, and insert meeting links. Essentially, it transforms your email inbox into a mini sales command center.
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Where to get it:
- For Chrome/Gmail: You’ll find it in the Chrome Web Store. Just search for “HubSpot Sales.”
- For Outlook Office 365, Outlook.com, Outlook for Mac, and new Outlook for Windows: This is the modern, recommended “HubSpot Sales web add-in.” You install it directly from Microsoft AppSource or within Outlook’s “Get Add-ins” section.
- For Outlook Desktop Older Windows versions: There was a classic “HubSpot Sales Outlook desktop add-in” for Windows. However, HubSpot is no longer actively developing or improving it due to significant changes in new Outlook for Windows. They strongly recommend switching to the web add-in instead. If you’re still on an older Outlook version, it’s still supported, but keep the web add-in in mind for future updates.
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Key features: Unlock Efficiency: Integrating with HubSpot Playbooks (and the Power of the HubSpot API)
- Email Tracking: Get real-time notifications when someone opens your email or clicks a link. This is gold for timing your follow-ups!
- Templates: Create and reuse personalized email templates to save a ton of time.
- Sequences: Automate follow-up emails to nurture leads without constantly remembering to hit send available in paid Sales Hub versions, but accessible via the extension.
- Meeting Links: Generate and insert personalized meeting links that connect to your calendar, allowing prospects to book time with you easily.
- CRM Sidebar: View and edit contact information, company details, and activity timelines directly from your inbox.
HubSpot CRM for Outlook Desktop The Classic Add-in – Windows Only
This is the traditional add-in for the Outlook desktop application on Windows. As mentioned, while still supported for older Outlook versions, the web add-in is the future.
- How it works: It embeds HubSpot CRM features directly into your Outlook desktop client, allowing you to log emails, see contact information, and use sales tools without leaving Outlook.
- Download/Install process: You typically download an installer file setup.exe from HubSpot’s website or via your HubSpot account settings under email integrations. You then run the installer, restart Outlook, and log in to connect.
- Compatibility: It generally works with Outlook 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, and Microsoft Outlook for Microsoft 365 MSO on Windows 8.1, 10, and 11.
HubSpot CRM for Office 365 Web-based Outlook & Outlook for Mac
This is the recommended add-in for anyone using Outlook on the web Office 365, Outlook.com, Outlook for Mac, or the “new” Outlook for Windows.
- Installation via the Office Store: The easiest way is to go through Microsoft AppSource or the “Get Add-ins” section directly within your Outlook application. Search for “HubSpot Sales.”
- Benefits for web users: It provides a consistent experience across different platforms and ensures you’re using the most up-to-date version of the integration.
HubSpot for Gmail Chrome Extension
If you’re a Gmail user, the HubSpot Sales Chrome Extension is your best friend.
- Installation: Head over to the Chrome Web Store, search for “HubSpot Sales,” and click “Add to Chrome.” Then, you’ll log in with your HubSpot account.
- Features specific to Gmail users: All the email tracking, templates, and meeting scheduling tools work seamlessly within your Gmail compose window and inbox. You’ll also see a HubSpot sidebar in Gmail displaying contact and company details.
HubSpot Chrome Extension Beyond Gmail
Beyond just email, the HubSpot Chrome extension offers broader functionality across the web.
- What it includes: This extension isn’t just for Gmail. It allows you to access sales tools, manage tasks, and view CRM records from various websites you visit. For example, it can integrate with LinkedIn to help you add prospects and log conversations with one click.
- Installation process: Same as the Gmail extension – Chrome Web Store, “HubSpot Sales,” “Add to Chrome.”
- Common uses:
- LinkedIn Integration: Extensions like Hublead or Surfe third-party, but integrate well allow you to import LinkedIn contacts into HubSpot, enrich contact data, and log conversations directly from LinkedIn. This saves a ton of manual data entry!
- Website Tracking: Some parts of the extension or the core HubSpot tracking code on your website can provide insights into what contacts are doing on your site.
- Quick Access: The HubSpot icon in your Chrome toolbar gives you quick access to your HubSpot portal and sales tools.
HubSpot’s Mobile App Not a “Plugin” but essential for on-the-go access
While we’re talking about bringing HubSpot closer to you, it’s worth mentioning the HubSpot mobile app. Many people search for a “desktop app,” and while HubSpot doesn’t have a traditional standalone desktop application for Mac or Windows you can, however, create a Chrome shortcut to open HubSpot in a separate window to mimic a desktop app, they do have excellent mobile apps for iOS and Android. Project Management with HubSpot: Your Ultimate Guide
- Why it’s useful: The mobile app lets you manage your CRM, sales activities, marketing, and customer support right from your phone or tablet. It’s perfect for checking deals, logging calls, managing contacts, and responding to live chats when you’re away from your desk.
Step-by-Step: How to Download and Install Your HubSpot Plugins
Let’s get down to the practical steps for installing the most common HubSpot plugins.
For Chrome Extensions e.g., Sales Extension, LinkedIn Integrations
This process is generally the same for any HubSpot-related Chrome extension.
- Open Google Chrome: Make sure you’re using the Chrome browser.
- Navigate to the Chrome Web Store: The easiest way is to type
chrome.google.com/webstore
into your address bar and hit Enter. - Search for the Extension: In the search bar on the left, type “HubSpot Sales” or “Hublead” or “Surfe” if you’re looking for specific LinkedIn tools.
- Click “Add to Chrome”: Once you find the official HubSpot Sales extension or your chosen third-party extension, click the “Add to Chrome” button.
- Confirm Installation: A pop-up will appear asking for permissions. Review them and click “Add extension.”
- Pin to Toolbar Optional but Recommended: After installation, a puzzle piece icon might appear in your Chrome toolbar. Click it, find the HubSpot extension, and click the pin icon next to it to keep it easily accessible.
- Log in to HubSpot: Click the HubSpot icon in your toolbar. You’ll likely be prompted to log in to your HubSpot account. Do so, and follow any on-screen instructions to connect your account.
For Outlook Desktop Add-in Windows – Older Versions
Remember, this is the older add-in, primarily for specific desktop Outlook versions on Windows. HubSpot now generally recommends the web add-in.
- Download the Installer: Log into your HubSpot account. Navigate to
Settings
>Integrations
>Email Integrations
. You should find a link to download the HubSpot Sales Outlook desktop add-in installer often namedsetup.exe
. You might also find direct download links on HubSpot’s knowledge base. - Run the Installer: Locate the
setup.exe
file you downloaded and double-click to run it. Follow the on-screen prompts. If you encounter any errors, check HubSpot’s troubleshooting guides. - Restart Outlook: It’s crucial to close and restart Outlook after installation to ensure the add-in loads correctly.
- Connect Your HubSpot Account: Once Outlook restarts, you should see a HubSpot Sales toolbar or section in your inbox ribbon. Click “Log in” and enter your HubSpot credentials. You’ll then select the email address you want to sync and click “Connect.”
Important Note: Do not install both the HubSpot Sales Office 365 add-in and the HubSpot Sales Outlook desktop add-in on the same device, as they can conflict. HubSpot Playbooks Demo: Your Ultimate Guide to Supercharging Your Team
For Outlook Mac and Office 365 Web Universal Add-in
This is the preferred and more universal way to integrate HubSpot with Outlook for modern users.
- Open Outlook: This can be your Outlook desktop application on Mac or Windows if it’s the newer version that supports web add-ins, or your Outlook on the web interface outlook.com or via Office 365.
- Access Add-ins:
- In Outlook desktop: Look for a “Get Add-ins” or “Manage Add-ins” button in your ribbon often under the “Home” tab or via
File > Manage Add-ins
. - In Outlook on the web: Click the gear icon Settings and look for “Manage add-ins” or “View all Outlook settings” > “Mail” > “Customize actions” or “Add-ins.”
- In Outlook desktop: Look for a “Get Add-ins” or “Manage Add-ins” button in your ribbon often under the “Home” tab or via
- Search for HubSpot Sales: In the Office Add-ins Store Microsoft AppSource, search for “HubSpot Sales.”
- Add the Add-in: Click “Add” or “Get It Now” for the official HubSpot Sales add-in. Follow any on-screen prompts to confirm.
- Refresh Outlook: The add-in should appear in your inbox ribbon. You might need to refresh your browser tab or restart your Outlook application.
- Connect Your HubSpot Account: Click the HubSpot icon in your ribbon and log in with your HubSpot credentials to connect.
Linking Your HubSpot Account
For almost all plugins, the final step after installation is to connect it to your HubSpot account. This usually involves:
- Clicking the HubSpot icon or toolbar button within the newly installed plugin.
- A login screen will pop up, asking for your HubSpot username and password.
- After logging in, you might be asked to grant permissions or select the specific HubSpot account if you have multiple.
- Once connected, you’ll be all set to use the integrated features!
Troubleshooting Common HubSpot Plugin Headaches
Even with the best tools, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are some common issues and what you can do about them.
“My Outlook Plugin Isn’t Working!” Greyed out, not loading, email tracking issues
This is a common one, especially with the Outlook desktop add-in. Demystifying HubSpot Pipelines: Your Ultimate Guide to Sales Success
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your Outlook version and operating system are supported. Remember, the old desktop add-in has specific requirements, and the web add-in is recommended for newer Outlook versions and Mac.
- Re-installation is Your Friend: Sometimes a fresh start is all it takes. Completely uninstall the plugin, restart your computer/Outlook, and then re-install it following the steps above.
- Firewall/Antivirus: Your security software might be blocking the plugin’s communication with HubSpot servers. Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus to see if that resolves the issue. You might need to add
*.hubspot.com
to your trusted sites. - Outlook Updates: Make sure your Outlook application is fully updated.
- HubSpot Support: If all else fails, HubSpot’s support resources knowledge base, community forums are excellent.
- Email Tracking Specifics: If emails aren’t tracking, make sure you’re sending them in HTML format not plain text and that the “Track email” box is selected before sending. Recipient email clients or security software can also block tracking pixels.
Chrome Extension Not Showing Up/Working
- Is it Enabled? Go to
chrome://extensions
in your browser, find the HubSpot Sales extension, and make sure the toggle switch is ON. - Conflicting Extensions: Other Chrome extensions can sometimes interfere. Try temporarily disabling all other extensions except HubSpot Sales to see if there’s a conflict.
- Browser Updates: Ensure your Chrome browser is fully updated.
- Clear Cache and Cookies: A classic fix! Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies can resolve many display or loading issues.
- Re-install: Just like with Outlook, a clean re-installation can often fix stubborn problems.
- Check Gmail Account: Make sure you’re signed into the correct Gmail account if the issue is with Gmail integration.
Login Issues
- Clear Browser Cache: Again, clearing your browser’s cache can help, especially if you’re switching HubSpot accounts or encountering persistent login loops.
- Correct Credentials: Double-check your HubSpot login details.
- VPN Interference: Sometimes a VPN can cause issues with authenticating connections. Try temporarily disabling it.
Is HubSpot Really Free? Understanding the Free Tools and Plugins
A lot of people ask, “Can you use HubSpot for free?” or “Is HubSpot free worth it?” The answer is a resounding yes! HubSpot offers an incredibly robust free CRM platform that many small businesses and startups can use to manage their entire customer journey.
- What’s included in the free CRM: You get unlimited users, up to 1,000,000 contacts, contact and company management, deal pipelines, task management, basic reporting, live chat, website forms, and meeting scheduling links. These are not trial versions. they are genuinely free, forever.
- How plugins enhance the free version: The beauty is that the core plugins we’ve discussed – like the HubSpot Sales Email Extension for Chrome and Outlook – are fully functional with the free CRM. This means you can track emails, use templates limited to 5 for free, schedule meetings one meeting link, and log activities without paying a dime. This allows even the smallest teams to benefit from powerful sales and marketing automation directly from their inboxes.
- When you might need paid versions: While the free tools are fantastic, they do come with some limitations e.g., HubSpot branding on certain assets, fewer templates, basic reporting, limited automation. As your business grows and you need more advanced features like extensive marketing automation workflows, multiple sales pipelines, or more in-depth analytics, you might consider upgrading to one of HubSpot’s paid “Hubs” Marketing Hub, Sales Hub, Service Hub, etc.. But for getting started and streamlining your core communications, the free CRM combined with these plugins is an absolute powerhouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HubSpot a desktop app?
No, HubSpot is primarily a web-based CRM platform. While there isn’t a traditional, standalone HubSpot desktop application for Mac or Windows, you can use browser extensions like the HubSpot Sales Chrome extension and Outlook add-ins to integrate HubSpot’s features directly into your email client and browser. You can also create a Chrome shortcut to open HubSpot in a dedicated window, mimicking a desktop app. HubSpot does offer robust mobile apps for iOS and Android.
How Much Is HubSpot Per Month? Let’s Break Down the Cost!How do I install the HubSpot Outlook plugin on my Mac?
To install the HubSpot Outlook plugin on your Mac, you’ll use the HubSpot Sales Office 365 add-in. Open Outlook on your Mac, go to the “Get Add-ins” section, search for “HubSpot Sales,” and click “Add.” Then, log in with your HubSpot credentials to connect. This is the recommended modern approach, replacing older desktop-specific add-ins.
Can I use HubSpot plugins with the free HubSpot CRM?
Yes, absolutely! Many of HubSpot’s essential plugins, especially the HubSpot Sales Email Extension for Chrome/Gmail and the HubSpot Sales web add-in for Outlook, are fully compatible with the free HubSpot CRM. You can track emails, use limited templates, schedule meetings, and log activities directly to your free CRM account.
Why is my HubSpot Outlook plugin not working?
Common reasons for the HubSpot Outlook plugin not working include compatibility issues with your Outlook version or operating system, conflicts with other add-ins, outdated software, or interference from firewalls or antivirus programs. Try reinstalling the plugin, ensuring your Outlook and browser are updated, checking for conflicting add-ins, and temporarily disabling security software to diagnose the problem.
How do I get the HubSpot Chrome extension for Gmail?
To get the HubSpot Chrome extension for Gmail, open your Google Chrome browser and go to the Chrome Web Store. Search for “HubSpot Sales,” click “Add to Chrome,” and confirm the installation. Once installed, log in with your HubSpot account, and the extension will integrate with your Gmail inbox, allowing you to track emails, use templates, and more.
What are some useful third-party HubSpot Chrome extensions for LinkedIn?
Several useful third-party Chrome extensions integrate HubSpot with LinkedIn to streamline prospecting. Popular options include Hublead and Surfe formerly LinkedHub. These extensions typically allow you to import LinkedIn contacts directly into HubSpot, enrich contact data with email addresses, log conversations, and manage leads without leaving LinkedIn, saving significant manual data entry time. Mastering HubSpot: Essential Tips and Tricks for Business Growth
Is there a “HubSpot for Dummies PDF free download”?
While there isn’t an official “HubSpot for Dummies PDF” directly offered by HubSpot for free download, HubSpot itself provides extensive free resources, guides, and knowledge base articles that serve a similar purpose. You can find numerous free guides on using the CRM, marketing, sales, and service tools directly on their website and blog, which are far more up-to-date than a generic PDF.
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