# Getting started

> Go from a new workspace to a useful lead list in a few focused steps.

Canonical: https://www.dotless.co/docs/getting-started

## Before you begin

You need a Dotless account and a location or map area you want to prospect. A category is helpful, but you can begin broadly and narrow the results later.

New accounts include a first-search tutorial. After dismissing any current product announcements, the tutorial highlights New search and stays focused on starting the first search.

## Complete your first search

1. Open New search. Choose it from the sidebar or open the search screen.
2. Choose an area. Search for a place or move the map until the visible area matches the market you want to explore.
3. Set useful filters. Add categories, a minimum rating, or the website filter when your offer is intended for businesses without a current first-party website.
4. Choose the result amount. A search can request up to 500 businesses, subject to the credits available in the workspace.
5. Review the results. Confirm that a business fits your offer before unlocking contacts, assigning a pipeline stage, or preparing outreach.

## Recommended next actions

- Connect a sender before creating email sequences.
- Use credits on leads that match your offer.
- Move qualified leads into a pipeline stage so the next action remains visible.
- Connect a supported CRM when your team manages follow-up outside Dotless.

Dotless helps organize prospecting, but you remain responsible for the messages you send and for following applicable privacy, marketing, and anti-spam rules.