Editing Warm Up Domain (section)

=== Step-by-step instructions ===

Follow these steps to effectively warm up your new sending domain:

==== 1. Understand domain reputation ====
   Ensure you understand the factors that influence '''domain reputation'''. These factors include:
   - Email engagement
   - Spam complaint rates
   - Spam traps
   - Bounce rates
   - Your sending history
   - Age of the domain 

==== 2. Wait 24-48 hours before sending ====
   After acquiring a new domain, avoid sending any emails for the first 24 to 48 hours. This precaution prevents appearing suspicious to MBPs, which may block your domain if emails are sent immediately.

==== 3. Set up DKIM ====
   Prior to sending any emails, you should set up '''DKIM''' (DomainKeys Identified Mail) to enhance your domain's credibility. An article on how to set up DKIM with ActiveCampaign is available for detailed instructions.

==== 4. Gradually increase sending volume ====
   Start sending emails at a low volume and gradually increase the amount over time. Follow this volume schedule as a guideline:

   - Day 1: < 500 emails
   - Day 2: < 1,000 emails
   - Days 3-7: < 5,000 emails
   - Days 7-14: < 20,000 emails
   - Days 14-21: < 50,000 emails
   - Days 21-30: < 100,000 emails

   Adjust based on your contacts’ engagement and responses.

==== 5. Send to your most engaged recipients ====
   Target your most engaged contacts first. Engaging with these individuals can improve your reputation, as they are more likely to interact positively with your emails. 

   Use features in ActiveCampaign, like '''segmentation''' with activity windows and automated list clean-ups, to help identify and target these contacts.

==== 6. Include brand elements ====
   Reinforce your brand's legitimacy by including recognizable elements in your email communications, such as your logo and consistent messaging. Try to maintain the same email templates as before.

==== 7. Ensure transparent WHOIS records ====
   Make sure your domain's WHOIS records are clear and transparent, avoiding any privacy protections that could indicate suspicious behavior. Confirmation of WHOIS details helps build trust with MBPs by verifying that your domain is linked to a legitimate business.

==== 8. Be cautious with uncommon TLDs ====
   Avoid using uncommon top-level domains (TLDs). Stick to traditional TLDs like .com to minimize scrutiny from MBPs.

==== 9. Exercise patience ====
   Avoid the temptation to launch high-volume campaigns immediately. Allow at least 30 days to build a solid sending reputation through gradual increases in email output.

==== 10. Monitor your efforts ====
   Utilize tools like '''Google Postmaster Tools''' to monitor your domain's reputation. This tool provides essential insights into how Gmail perceives your domain reputation, helping you make informed decisions about increasing sending volumes.