Getting Started
Access the Compose Page
- Go to Messaging in the main menu
- Click Compose to start a new message
- Or click Compose from the message list page
Quick Message Flow
- Select recipients from your contact list
- Choose message type (email or SMS)
- Write your content or use a template
- Send immediately or schedule for later
Recipient Selection
Filter by Contact Type
- All Contacts - See everyone in your database
- Members - Active club members only
- Leads - Potential members and prospects
- Staff - Your team members
- Contacts - General contact list
Select Recipients
- Choose contact type from the dropdown
- Search for specific contacts in the search box
- Select individual contacts from the filtered list
- Use “Select All” to choose everyone in the current filter
- Clear selection to start over
Bulk Selection Tips
- Filter first by contact type for targeted messaging
- Use “Select All” for mass communications
- Verify your list before sending
- Save time by pre-filtering to the right audience
Message Types
Email Messages
- Rich formatting with images, links, and styling
- HTML content for professional appearance
- Large character limits for detailed messages
- Attachment support for documents and images
SMS Messages
- Plain text only for maximum compatibility
- Character limits (typically 160 characters)
- Quick delivery for urgent communications
- Mobile-optimized for phone screens
Content Creation
Subject Line
- Keep it clear and descriptive
- Avoid spam words that trigger filters
- Make it personal when possible
- Test different approaches for better open rates
Message Content
- Use the rich text editor for emails
- Format with headings and bullet points
- Add images and links for engagement
- Keep SMS messages short and direct
Template Integration
- Select a template from the dropdown
- Template content automatically fills in
- Customize the content as needed
- Save changes before sending
Scheduling Messages
Enable Scheduling
- Toggle the “Schedule Message” switch
- Choose date and time for delivery
- Messages send automatically at the scheduled time
- Edit or cancel scheduled messages anytime
Scheduling Best Practices
- Schedule during business hours for better engagement
- Consider time zones for global audiences
- Test scheduling with a small group first
- Use scheduling for promotional campaigns
Message Actions
Send Immediately
- Click “Send” to deliver right away
- Message goes to all selected recipients
- Delivery status updates in real-time
- Cannot be undone once sent
Save as Draft
- Click “Save Draft” to save for later
- Edit and send when ready
- Drafts appear in your message list
- Perfect for complex messages
Schedule for Later
- Enable scheduling and set time
- Click “Schedule” to queue the message
- Messages send automatically at the set time
- Manage scheduled messages from the message list
Advanced Features
Reply to Messages
- Click “Reply” on any received message
- Original sender becomes the recipient
- Subject line automatically prefixed with “Re:”
- Maintain conversation thread for context
Edit Existing Messages
- Click “Edit” on draft messages
- Modify content and recipients
- Update scheduling if needed
- Save changes and send when ready
Message Preview
- See how your message looks before sending
- Preview on different devices (desktop, mobile)
- Check formatting and links
- Verify recipient count and details
Validation and Errors
Required Fields
- At least one recipient must be selected
- Subject line cannot be empty
- Message content must have text
- Scheduled messages need a valid date/time
Common Issues
- No recipients selected - Choose at least one contact
- Empty subject - Add a descriptive subject line
- Empty content - Write your message content
- Invalid date - Check your scheduling date/time
Error Handling
- Validation errors appear below the relevant fields
- Fix errors before sending
- Error messages explain what needs to be corrected
- Form saves progress as you type
Tips for Success
Message Content
- Write compelling subjects that encourage opens
- Use clear, concise language for better readability
- Include a call-to-action when appropriate
- Test with a small group before mass sending
Recipient Management
- Segment your audience for targeted messaging
- Use contact types to filter effectively
- Verify recipient lists before sending
- Respect opt-out preferences and privacy
Timing and Scheduling
- Send during peak hours for better engagement
- Consider your audience’s timezone for global reach
- Use scheduling for consistent communication
- Plan campaigns in advance for better results