How to Use the Side Index

Why This Matters

The Side Index gives you instant access to any contact by last name. Instead of scrolling through hundreds or thousands of contacts, you can jump straight to the letter you need. It stays visible on every screen, so you're never more than one click away from finding the right person.

Before You Begin

Make sure your contacts have last names entered in the correct field. The Side Index filters by last name only, so contacts without a last name or with names entered in the wrong field won't appear where you expect them.

Watch & Learn

🎥 Video: How to Search for a Contact

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Locate the Side Index

Look for the vertical A-Z list on the left side of your screen. This is your Side Index, and it's always visible while you're working with contacts.

2. Click a Letter

Click any letter that matches the first letter of your contact's last name. For example, if you're looking for Sarah Johnson, click "J."

The contact list updates instantly to show only contacts whose last name starts with that letter. This filter is temporary—it doesn't change your contact list or create a saved search.

3. Find Your Contact

Scroll through the filtered list and click the contact you're looking for. The Side Index stays active, so you can click a different letter anytime to search again.

Questions and Answers

Q: What happens when I click a letter on the Side Index?

A: The system applies a temporary filter to your contact list, showing only contacts whose last name starts with that letter. Your full contact list remains unchanged—this is just a quick way to narrow down what you see.

Q: Why can't I find a contact even when I click the correct letter?

A: This usually means the contact's last name is missing or entered in the wrong field. Open the contact record and verify the last name is spelled correctly and saved in the Last Name field, not in a custom field or company name field.

Q: Can I filter by first name or company name using the Side Index?

A: No. The Side Index only filters by the first letter of the last name. To search by first name, company name, or any other field, use the search bar at the top of the screen instead.

Q: Does the Side Index work with contact groups or filtered lists?

A: Yes. If you've already filtered your contact list using tags, categories, or another search, the Side Index will filter within those results. It always works with whatever contacts are currently visible.

Guide Type: How-To Guide

Estimated Time: 1 minute

Next Guides: How to Search for Contacts, How to Edit Contact Information, About: Contact Organization