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Set Up SMS Confirmations
This guide explains how to set up SMS confirmations to ensure seamless client communication. Follow these steps to configure your system, customize messages, and streamline appointment confirmations.
1. Initial Setup
Access SMS Settings
- Navigate to Setup and Configuration
- Select General (left-hand menu), then click Confirmation.
- Ensure the SMS support tick box is selected.
Account Setup
- Enter your SMS account username and password under Settings.
- If you don’t have an SMS account, click Sign Up and follow the prompts.
2. Customizing SMS Messages
Edit Message Content
- Click the pencil icon to view and edit the SMS template.
- Pre-filled fields include:
- Client name (from the profile card).
- Business name and phone number (from business settings).
- Appointment date and time (from the appointment book).
Character Limits and Personalization
- Character Limit: SMS messages are limited to 160 characters. A counter shows the remaining characters.
- Personalization: Add fields using the dropdown menu for more tailored messages.
- To revert to the default template, click Default and save changes.
Save Changes
Click Done to save your customized SMS settings.
3. Configuring SMS Sending Options
Schedule Sending Options
- Under Configure, choose a sending method:
- Manual: Send messages manually.
- Prompt: Review and send with confirmation.
- Automatic: Messages are sent automatically.
- Specify:
- Time and days in advance for sending SMS confirmations.
- Enter "1" for minimum business days in advance to ensure same-day bookings receive confirmations.
Reply Polling
- Choose how replies are checked:
- Startup: Checks replies when the system starts.
- First Contact: Replies start coming after the first SMS is sent.
- Manual: Manually check replies (recommended interval: 30 minutes).
- Save settings by pressing Done.
4. Employee-Specific Configuration
- Go to Setup > Employees.
- Ensure that each employee’s column is selected for SMS notifications.
- Save changes by clicking Done.
5. Final Steps
After completing the steps above:
- Your SMS confirmations will be fully configured.
- Clients will automatically receive appointment confirmations, ensuring better communication and fewer missed appointments.
Tips for Success
- Regularly review and update SMS templates to reflect your business tone and needs.
- Monitor the character limit to avoid splitting messages.
- Use the default template as a fallback for quick setups.