A CRM only works when it reduces friction. For VCs, the goal is simple: move from raw signal to clear next step — fast.
A pipeline that doesn't rot
Use stages that represent real decisions, not vague statuses:
- New signal → captured automatically (LinkedIn, intros, inbound)
- Qualified → minimum data is complete (company, round, sector, geo)
- First contact → outreach sent with a follow-up SLA
- Call scheduled → calendar + notes captured automatically
- IC ready → memo template filled + key metrics validated
Automations worth doing first
- Enrich on create (company website, team, socials)
- Follow-up reminders (auto-task if no reply in 3/7 days)
- Meeting notes to fields (summary → next steps → owners)
- Deduplicate (domain + LinkedIn URL are your best keys)
The gold rule
If a field is not used in a decision, don't ask for it.