Editing Create an auto responder campaign (section)

= Create an Auto Responder Campaign =

== Introduction ==
An '''auto responder campaign''' is an essential feature within ActiveCampaign designed to send a one-time email to contacts immediately after they subscribe to your list. This feature can be particularly beneficial for welcoming new subscribers or sending timely follow-up messages. Understanding how to create and configure an auto responder campaign allows businesses to engage effectively with their audience, improve customer relationships, and drive continued communication.

This article will guide you through the process of creating an auto responder campaign, explaining its configuration options, and providing best practices for optimal engagement.

== How to Access This Feature ==
To create an auto responder campaign in ActiveCampaign, you will need to access the Campaigns section. Follow these steps:
1. Log in to your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Navigate to the '''Campaigns''' menu on the left sidebar.
3. Select the '''Create a Campaign''' button to begin the process of setting up your auto responder.

== Step-by-Step Instructions ==
Creating an auto responder campaign is straightforward. Follow these detailed instructions:

=== Step 1: Initiate Campaign Creation ===
1. Click on '''Campaigns''' > '''Create a Campaign'''.

=== Step 2: Campaign Setup ===
2. On the next screen, you will need to:
   * Provide a name for your campaign in the designated field.
   * Choose the '''Auto Responder''' campaign type.
   * Click '''Next''' to proceed.

=== Step 3: Complete the Campaign Summary ===
3. Fill out the required fields located on the '''Campaign Summary''' page. You may skip this step momentarily and design your email initially, but ensure you complete these details before sending your campaign.

=== Step 4: Select Campaign Builder ===
4. Choose the campaign builder you wish to use. By default, the option '''Create with email designer''' is selected. To utilize a different designer such as the Classic Designer, Custom HTML, or Text only designer, click the down caret and select your preferred option.

=== Step 5: Choose a Template ===
5. You can select an available template or opt for '''Start from Scratch''' to create your design.

=== Step 6: Design Your Email Content ===
6. Add content to your email and modify the look and feel to suit your brand. Once finalized, click '''Next''' to continue.

== Configuration Options and Settings ==
Before finalizing and sending your auto responder campaign, it's critical to configure the settings on the '''Campaign Summary''' page.

=== Send Options ===
- **Send to Existing Contacts**: This option is toggled to "Off" by default. If you want to send the auto responder to existing contacts on your list, switch this toggle to '''On'''.
  
- **Send to New Contacts**: This is set to "Immediately" by default. If you prefer to delay sending the auto responder, click the dropdown next to '''Send to New Contacts''' and specify the desired number of days and/or hours for delivery after subscription.

== Best Practices and Tips ==
- **Use A/B Testing**: Consider utilizing A/B testing features for your subject lines or email designs to determine which resonates more with your audience.
  
- **Monitor Engagement**: Review campaign reports and analytics to track performance metrics such as open rates and click-through rates. Adjust your campaigns based on the data.
  
- **Consistent Branding**: Ensure your email content aligns closely with your brand voice and visual identity for consistency, making it easily recognizable to your audience.
  
- **Personalization**: Where possible, personalize your emails to increase engagement. Use contact first names or specific data based on their interactions for a tailored experience.

== Troubleshooting ==
If you encounter issues with sending your auto responder:
- Ensure that the '''Send to Existing Contacts''' toggle is set according to your preferences. 
- Confirm that you have correctly configured your sender details and subject lines before attempting to send.
- If using an API to add contacts, verify that the parameters are correctly set, specifically the '''instantresponders''' variable, ensuring it is set to 1 (only applicable for certain accounts).

== Related Features ==
- [[Automation]]: Explore how to automate your communication further and engage users dynamically based on interactions.
  
- [[Campaign Types]]: Learn about different types of campaigns available within ActiveCampaign, including regular campaigns and specific targeting options.

== FAQ ==
'''Q1: Can I send the auto responder to existing contacts?'''  
A1: Yes, you can send it to existing contacts by toggling the '''Send to Existing Contacts''' option to '''On''' in the Campaign Summary page.

'''Q2: How soon will new subscribers receive the auto responder?'''  
A2: New subscribers will receive the auto responder immediately if that setting is selected, or after a specified duration if configured accordingly.

'''Q3: Can I edit the auto responder after it's created?'''  
A3: Yes, you can update the subject line and sender details at any time by accessing the campaign from the Campaign Overview page.

'''Q4: What if my auto responder doesn’t send with the API?'''  
A4: Double-check the API settings, ensuring that the '''instantresponders''' variable is set to 1 and that no conflicting variables are preventing the response.

'''Q5: What happens to subscribers added via CSV import?'''  
A5: Subscribers added through CSV import will not receive the auto responder automatically. The campaign is triggered only if they subscribe via a form or other specified actions.

'''Q6: Is it possible to disable an auto responder campaign?'''  
A6: Yes, you can disable the campaign by clicking the down caret next to the campaign's '''Edit''' button and selecting the '''Disable''' option.

'''Q7: Do I need to save changes when editing the auto responder?'''  
A7: Yes, after making updates to the subject line or any other details, remember to click the '''Finish''' or '''Save and exit''' button to save your changes.
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