What Are Automations?
Automations (also called Workflows) allow you to automate repetitive tasks based on predefined triggers and actions. They help you:
✅ Save time by eliminating manual follow-ups
✅ Improve customer engagement with timely responses
✅ Reduce errors by ensuring consistency in communication
✅ Scale your business with minimal effort
If you've used platforms like ActiveCampaign, Mailchimp, Zapier, or Infusionsoft, you’ll find GoHighLevel’s automation system even more powerful and flexible.
How the Automations Tab Works
When you open the Automations tab, you’ll see:
A list of all your automations (workflows).
Draft or Published status (Draft = OFF, Published = ON).
Number of enrolled contacts and how many are currently moving through the workflow.
Performance metrics (email open rates, click rates, SMS deliverability, etc.).
Managing Your Automations
🔹 Use Folders – Organize automations based on campaigns, business functions, or client types.
🔹 Duplicate Workflows – If you need a variation of an existing automation, copy and tweak it.
🔹 Restore Deleted Automations – If you accidentally delete one, you have 30 days to recover it.
🔹 Create Smart Lists for Automations – Filter and categorize automations based on triggers or actions.
Best Practices for Building Automations
1. Define the Problem First
Before you build an automation, ask:
✅ What problem does this solve? (e.g., following up with leads automatically)
✅ What happens if it breaks? (Plan for errors or exceptions)
Thinking like an architect helps you build more effective workflows.
2. Plan Your Automation Before You Build
💡 Pro Tip: Draw your automation on paper or a whiteboard first.
This helps you visualize the flow, avoid unnecessary steps, and build faster inside GoHighLevel.
3. Automate Strategically (Not Everything Needs Automation!)
While it’s tempting to automate everything, focus on high-impact tasks like:
✔️ Lead Follow-Ups – Automatically nurture leads via SMS, email, or calls.
✔️ Appointment Reminders – Reduce no-shows with automated reminders.
✔️ Customer Onboarding – Guide new customers through a structured process.
✔️ Reactivation Campaigns – Re-engage inactive contacts with special offers.
What’s Next?
Now that you understand the basics, the next steps are:
Understanding Triggers & Actions (What starts an automation & what happens next)
Exploring Advanced Settings (Delays, conditions, custom workflows)
Building Specific Automations (Examples & real-world use cases)
GoHighLevel automations are a game-changer when used correctly. Ready to start automating? Let's dive deeper in the next guide!