We are a Japanese startup targeting the global market from day one. In aiming for international markets, we want to share the tools that have been instrumental for us.
Kris Takahashi
Startup Founder / UX Designer
I am a Japanese entrepreneur who recently discovered an exceptional tool while searching for an effective way of contacting potential leads. The tool “Octopus CRM” enables me to start conversations with relevant people globally. It is a powerful LinkedIn automation platform that helps you to reach out to potential customers and grow your business.
In this article, I will provide an in-depth overview of Octopus CRM and share insights on how to use it effectively.
Octopus CRM is LinkedIn's automation tool for requesting connections and sending automated messages. This tool is particularly effective for lead acquisition and nurturing. It is available for both premium and free accounts and can be integrated with many business tools via Zapier, a workflow automation tool for connecting apps. Website:https://octopuscrm.io/
Step 1: Download as Chrome Extension
Octopus CRM is available as a Chrome extension. It can be downloaded from the following link. https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/octopus-all-in-one-linked/afahlliooeebnifondmbhcaghcapepbm
Step 2: Link it to your LinkedIn account
Connect with your LinkedIn account and set up automatic messages and connection requests. Here are the detailed steps to use Octopus CRM effectively.
First, log in to your LinkedIn account. Next, enter the relevant keywords in the search bar to find the accounts you want to connect with. For instance, if you're looking to connect with AI engineers, type "AI engineer" in the search bar and click on the "People" filter. This will display a list of AI engineers. If you want to connect with individuals outside your immediate network, select "3rd" from the "Connection" filter to further narrow down your search.
Step 3: Launch OctopusCRM extension.
Launch the Octopus CRM Google Chrome extension you just installed. You should see a screen similar to the attached image. Select "Connect" from the "Select Action" dropdown menu. The "Select Campaign" option can remain as the default. In the "Send Users from" field, enter the URL of the LinkedIn page that lists the AI engineers in the 3rd Connection that you currently have open. Finally, specify the number of profiles you want to send, and Octopus CRM will extract that number of accounts and import them into the CRM.
Step 4: Start CRM
When you start the CRM, you will see the following screen. Let's start with the big picture.
In the right space you will see the list of accounts you have just extracted and imported.
In the upper left space, you can set up a template message, which will automatically send a message to users who have accepted your friend request.
The lower left space will list accounts to which you have already sent a friend request.
I initially wanted to use Octopus CRM to introduce entrepreneurs to my new initiative, GlobalDeel. It was a community dedicated to sharing global job creation information (now not active anymore). To do this, I narrowed down my list to South Korea, where many global entrepreneurs are emerging. I then sent connection requests and personalized messages to these individuals, inviting them to join and engage with Global Deel.
The actual usage is simple. Simply enter a number in the "How many users to connect?" box in the upper right corner of the screen and press the Launch button. OctopusCRM will automatically initiate the connection request and send it to each user in about 15 seconds. You can do anything else in the meantime.
Usage Restrictions
There are restrictions on sending messages to prevent them from being considered spam. Paid accounts can send up to 300 messages per week, while free accounts can send only about 30. Even with a paid account, I received a warning from LinkedIn if I tried to send more than the maximum of 100 messages per day.
We recommend trying OctopusCRM for a free period
If you pay close to $15/month, you can use a premium account with auto-connect and messaging features. We recommend that you first try it out for a free one-week period to see how it works.
Zapier Integration
For a more efficient workflow, consider integrating Zapier with other business tools.
Octopus CRM is a very useful tool for anyone who wants to leverage LinkedIn to expand their business connections and acquire potential leads. Startups or entrepreneurs who are just getting started building their business network can use this tool to find their first customers. Understanding how to use Octopus CRM effectively can help you maximize your business potential.
We are a Japanese startup targeting the global market from day one. In aiming for international markets, we want to share the tools that have been instrumental for us.
Kris Takahashi
Startup Founder / UX Designer
This blog post shares examples of successful as well as failed global expansion efforts that provide lessons for businesses that plan to expand overseas and grow globally. This article has been compiled from a selection of existing case study articles that provide important points to consider when entering foreign markets.
Kris Takahashi
Startup Founder / UX Designer