Shape gives you several different ways to create leads, depending on your workflow and where your data is coming from. This video walks through each method so you can choose the approach that fits your team, your tools, and your volume.
Whether you’re entering a single contact or posting thousands of leads per day, Shape’s lead-creation methods all connect cleanly into your pipeline, status automation, assignments, and campaigns.
Creating Leads Manually
The simplest way to add a new lead is directly inside Shape.
How to create a lead by hand
- 1. Click the + button in the top navigation bar
- 2. Select the type of contact you want to add
- 3. Fill in the required fields
- 4. The record saves automatically
Required fields are fully configurable. You can:
- Add more required fields for stronger data capture
- Reduce the requirements for quicker manual entry
- Require specific fields only when a status changes (via Manage Statuses)
Once the lead is saved:
- It defaults to the system’s “New Lead” status (customizable)
- It automatically assigns to the user who created it
- You can adjust assignment if needed
Manual creation works well for individual contacts, referrals you receive by phone, or one-off entries.
Creating Leads Through Webhooks or API Calls
For larger or ongoing lead sources, Shape supports automatic creation through:
- HTTP POST webhooks
- JSON or form-encoded API calls
- Built-in Open API endpoints
This is the most common method for:
- Lead providers
- Website forms
- Custom landing pages
- Third-party marketing tools
Where to find your posting instructions
Go to Settings → Sales & Marketing → Marketing Sources.
Here you can:
- Create a new source
- Generate a unique posting URL
- View field mappings
- Choose whether you’re posting to Leads, Applications, or Loans
Shape accepts both form-data and JSON posts. If posting JSON, include the header indicating JSON content.
After a successful post, Shape responds with:
- Lead ID
- Status
- Confirmation message
The lead appears immediately in the correct pipeline.
Creating Leads Through Zapier
If you’re not a developer, Zapier gives you an easy, no-code way to send data into Shape.
Popular Zaps include:
- Facebook Lead Ads → Shape
- Website forms → Shape
- Chat tools → Shape
Using the Webhooks by Zapier app, you can:
- 1. Use your Shape posting URL
- 2. Map your fields from Zapier to Shape
- 3. Include compliance-related fields like IP address, opt-in language, UTM values, and consent data
This method is great for teams who need automation without writing code.
Creating Leads Through Spreadsheet Imports
For bulk uploads, purchased lists, database migrations, or event leads, Shape also supports CSV imports.
Recommended columns include
- First name
- Last name
- Mobile phone
- Created date
- Source
- Assigned users (LO / LOA)
- Status
- Tags
Importing workflow
- 1. Go to Settings → Import Settings
- 2. Upload your CSV
- 3. Map your spreadsheet columns to Shape fields
- 4. Choose assignment and status handling
- 5. Review and start the import
You can also:
- Save mapping templates for repeated imports
- Use merge-duplicate rules
- Trigger campaigns or workflow automation on import (optional)
Shape will validate formatting and import your clean data directly into the correct pipeline.
Choosing the Right Method for You
Each creation method fits a different workflow:
Manual entry Best for one-off contacts or leads that cannot come through automated channels.
Webhooks / API Ideal for automated lead sources, websites, and integrations.
Zapier Perfect for non-technical teams who still want automation.
Imports (CSV) Best for large lists or periodic uploads.
Every method seamlessly connects to Shape’s assignment rules, statuses, prioritization views, and automation tools.
If you’re unsure which method fits your workflow, Shape’s team can help you set it up.