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How to Use Proactive Messages in Connect

Engage Visitors Instantly with Automated Pop-Ups

 

Proactive Messages are automated pop-ups designed to engage website visitors instantly, guide them toward important actions, and create a seamless connection between your online presence and in-person interactions. These messages can include text, videos, links, and calls to action, ensuring that visitors are encouraged to take the next step—whether it's planning a visit, joining a live chat, or learning more about your church.

1. What Are Proactive Messages?

A Proactive Message is a pop-up notification that appears on your website automatically to:
✅ Greet new visitors and introduce them to your church.
✅ Direct them to Plan a Visit, Live Chat, or any other engagement tool.
✅ Provide important updates or special announcements.
✅ Offer customized messaging based on visitor behavior.

💡 If no proactive message is set, visitors will only see the Connect button and need to click it manually. With Proactive Messages, you control the first impression and guide visitors toward meaningful interactions right away.

2. Creating a Proactive Message

Step 1: Access the Proactive Messages Section

  • In your Connect Dashboard, go to Proactive Messages in the left-hand menu.
  • Click "New Proactive Message" to create a custom message.

Step 2: Set the Basic Details

  • Name Your Message – This is for internal use only (e.g., Homepage Welcome Message).
  • Enable or Disable – Toggle ON to activate the message.

Step 3: Choose Where to Display the Message

  • Enter a URL – Define the specific webpage where this message should appear (e.g., Homepage, Plan a Visit page).
  • If you leave this blank, the message will appear on every page where Connect is installed.

3. Customizing the Message Content

Add a Video, Image, or GIF

  • Click "Add Media" to upload a video, image, or GIF.
  • Options include:
    ✅ Record a new video directly from your dashboard.
    ✅ Embed a YouTube/Vimeo video for personalized greetings.
    ✅ Upload a pre-recorded video or image from your computer.
  • This media will appear at the top of the pop-up, making it highly visible.

💡 Tip: A short welcome video from the pastor or leadership team can significantly increase engagement.

Add Introduction Text

  • Write a short greeting or message to engage visitors.
  • Example:
    "Welcome to [Church Name]! We're so glad you're here. Click below to plan your visit or ask a question!"

Link to Connect Tools

  • Choose what action you want visitors to take.
  • Options include:
    ✅ Live Chat – Start an instant conversation.
    ✅ Plan a Visit – Guide them to schedule a visit.
    ✅ Contact Form – Let them submit a question or request.
    ✅ All Active Tools – Show the full Connect panel.
  • You can also turn off tools if you only want to display a message or video.

Add an Avatar or Church Logo

  • Display an avatar or logo to make the message feel more personal.
  • Example: Use a pastor’s photo for a welcome message or a church logo for brand consistency.

4. Adjusting Visibility & Timing Settings

Who Sees This Message?

  • All Visitors – Show to everyone.
  • New Visitors Only – Greet first-time visitors only.
  • Returning Visitors Only – Display a custom message for those who have visited before.
    • Example: "Welcome back! Have any questions? We're here to help!"

When to Show the Message

  • Always – Message displays every time the page loads.
  • During Working Hours – Only shows when your team is available for live chat.
  • After Hours – Displays only outside your working hours.

Where to Show the Message

  • Desktop, Mobile, or Both – Choose whether to display the message on mobile, desktop, or everywhere.

Timing Settings (When the Pop-Up Appears and Closes)

  • Open Automatically – Message pops up instantly when the page loads.
  • Delayed Opening – Set a delay (e.g., 5-15 seconds) before the message appears.
  • Auto-Close Timer – Close the message after a set time (or let the visitor manually dismiss it).

5. Previewing and Publishing Your Message

  • Click "Save & Preview" to test the message in real-time.
  • Click "Save & Close" to finalize and activate it.

6. Managing Multiple Proactive Messages

  • You can create multiple proactive messages for different pages and visitor types.
  • Examples:
    ✅ Homepage Message: "Welcome! Click below to Plan a Visit."
    ✅ Giving Page Message: "Have questions about online giving? Chat with us!"
    ✅ Sermon Page Message: "Enjoy this message? Join us in person this Sunday!"
  • Use the Duplicate Feature to quickly copy and modify existing messages for other pages.

7. Best Practices for Proactive Messages

✅ Use video for a personal touch – A warm, welcoming video builds trust and engagement.
✅ Don’t overwhelm visitors – Use messages strategically so they feel helpful, not intrusive.
✅ Customize for different pages – Show relevant messages depending on the page content.
✅ Set visitor-based rules – Customize messages for new vs. returning visitors.
✅ Keep messages concise – A simple, clear message increases the likelihood of action.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve set up your Proactive Messages, explore other tools in Connect to further enhance visitor engagement. Need help? Contact support@ministrydesigns.org or visit ministrydesigns.com.