Users can text new numbers or existing contacts and leverage Number Detection, Templates, Shortened URL Links, Translation, and Scheduling features.
Note: In this article we will start with the process for adding a new number by either
a) Starting Conversation within the Inbox, or
b) capturing one using the Extension.
For more on texting existing contact numbers and other contact management, see the Contacts article.
Adding a New Number
Starting a Conversation From the Inbox
Select Start Conversation from the Inbox Conversation list pane.
From here a new conversation can be started with existing contacts, or, with the option to create a new contact. More on writing a text is further down the page.
New accounts will first need to create a new contact:
and fill out the following fields:
Number Detection (Using the Emissary Extension)
Emissary will detect phone numbers on any webpage. If Emissary can text a phone number, the number will become encased in a green border and the Emissary logo. To text a new number:
1) Click on a phone number wrapped in green (this will open the Emissary sidebar)
2) Add contact information in the sidebar, and select Save
Write and Send a Text
Once your new contact has been added, you'll be able to get the conversation started by:
1) Writing out your message
2) Hitting Send
Texting features
When typing a message to the recipient (400 character limit per message) there are also options to:
Use templates
Insert a link and use our URL shortener
Translate incoming and outgoing messages
Schedule send
Templates
Templates save users from having to enter the same message content and personalize them by using fields as variables. To add one:
1) Select the Template icon
2) Search existing templates and add or select "Add new template"
3) Create template message content, and insert variables to customize each message using available fields
Add URL Links
URL Links are a helpful way to provide a reference or guide a contact to take next steps in your communication.
Links can pasted directly into the message box, or shortened and added using the URL icon.
Either will prompt the option to use our URL Shortener to reduce message length and ensure messages aren't flagged as spam.
Schedule Send
If you want to send a text at a future time, select the Schedule Message icon
to get to the Schedule Message pane:
Selecting Custom Time will prompt additional options to complete scheduling
1) Select the date and time.
2) Check "Cancel if the user replies" to cancel the scheduled message if the user replies to the current conversation.
3) Select "Schedule" to ensure the message is sent at your chosen time.