Outlook 365 Salesforce Plugin
Applies To: Essentials ✅ | Growth ✅ | Pro ✅
Overview
The Outlook 365 Salesforce Plugin (Salesforce for Outlook) allows users to view, create, and log Salesforce records directly from their Outlook inbox. Whether you’re using the desktop app or web-based Outlook, the plugin makes it easy to connect every conversation to the right Lead, Contact, or Opportunity, without switching tools.
Key Features
Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Log Emails | Log sent or received emails to Salesforce with a single click |
View CRM Context | See related records like Leads, Contacts, and Opportunities inline |
Add Records | Create new Salesforce records from your inbox |
Persistent Sidebar | View Salesforce sidebar inside Outlook desktop or web apps |
System Requirements
Microsoft Outlook 365 (Web, Desktop, or Mac version)
Outlook Add-In support enabled in your organisation’s Microsoft environment
Installation Instructions
Step 1: Add the Outlook Add-In
Open Outlook
Click the gear icon ⚙ and go to View all Outlook settings
Navigate to Mail > Customise Actions > Add-ins
Search for Salesforce
Click Add next to Salesforce Lightning for Outlook
If you’re using a company-managed Office 365 instance, your IT admin may pre-install the add-in for all users.
Step 2: Connect Salesforce
Open any email in Outlook
The Salesforce panel will appear on the right
Click Log In to Salesforce and authorise your login
Using the Plugin
Action | How-To |
|---|---|
Log an Email | Open an email → Click the Salesforce icon → Click Log Email |
Create a New Lead | Click + New Lead in the sidebar |
View Related Records | Sidebar auto-surfaces Leads, Contacts, and Opportunities linked to the sender |
Troubleshooting
Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
Salesforce panel not appearing | Check Outlook Add-In permissions or re-enable via Outlook settings |
Email not matching to any record | Make sure the sender/recipient exists as a Lead or Contact in Salesforce |
Sidebar says "Authentication Needed" | Click the ⚙ icon in the panel to reconnect your Salesforce login |
Calendar events not syncing | Ensure Einstein Activity Capture is enabled and user is assigned |
Summary
The Outlook Salesforce Plugin bridges your inbox and your CRM — allowing you to work where you're most comfortable without sacrificing data quality or sales process tracking. It's a must-have for any rep working in Outlook.
Version: 1.0.0
Updated: 16 May 2025