How to Import Relationships into Tern
Prepare Your Contacts
Import a basic list of contacts into Tern.
Ensure each contact has a unique identifier in the "Import ID" column.
Create a Relationships File
Create a new file/tab for relationships (e.g., in Google Sheets or Excel).
Include three columns: Contact ID One, Contact ID Two, and Relationship.
Relationship types you can useWhen you map the "Relationship" field during import, pick one of these values for each row. Enter them exactly as shown:
child
friend
grandparent
grandchild
in-law
sibling
spouse/partner
parent/guardian
referred by
referred
other
Use "in-law" for any in-law relationship (mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and so on). Tern automatically creates the matching reverse relationship on the related contact, so you only import each pair once:
"child" adds "parent/guardian" on the other person (and the reverse).
"grandparent" adds "grandchild" on the other person (and the reverse).
"referred by" adds "referred" on the other person (and the reverse).
"in-law", "sibling", "spouse/partner", "friend", and "other" apply the same type to both contacts.
Establish Relationships
Manually input the Import IDs of contacts and define their relationships.
For example, link Contact ID One (e.g., T1) to Contact ID Two (e.g., T2) as spouses.
Import Relationships into Tern
Export the relationships file as a CSV.
Navigate to Tern, go to Contacts, and select "Import Contact Relationships."
Upload the CSV file, map the fields (Import ID, Related Contact Import ID, Relationship), and confirm the relationships.
Verify and Manage Relationships
Check the established relationships in Tern.
Use Import IDs to match contacts and prevent duplicates.
Tern's system will help clean up and organize the imported relationship data.
Benefits of Using Import IDs
Import IDs help accurately match contacts and avoid duplicates.
You can reference Import IDs across multiple imports for consistent relationship management.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can efficiently import and manage relationships in Tern, enhancing your contact organization and connectivity.