Click to Chat Strategies

NextSteps, a powerful digital tool developed by the Jesus Film Project, offers robust features for implementing click-to-chat strategies in your digital ministry. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and customizing chat features to engage your audience effectively.

Understanding Click-to-Chat Strategies

Click-to-chat strategies involve using interactive chat features to engage people in real-time conversations. These strategies can be highly effective for:

• Providing information about services and events
• Inviting conversations about faith
• Presenting resources for spiritual growth
• Offering immediate prayer support

Setting Up Click-to-Chat in NextSteps

1. Accessing the Strategy Section

1. Open your journey in the NextSteps journey builder.
2. Click on the "Strategy" tab in the upper right corner of the journey builder.
3. Here, you'll find a summary of all calls to action grouped together.

2. Customizing the Messenger Link

1. Locate the "Message me directly" button in your journey.
2. Click on the button to edit its properties.
3. Change the destination URL to your preferred messaging platform (e.g., Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp).

Note: For guidance on setting up direct links for Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, refer to Meta's documentation for businesses.

3. Adding a Prayer Request Button

1. Click on the lower portion of a card to bring up the Journey Appearance controls.
2. Select "Journey" from the options.
3. Remove the reactions section if desired.
4. Change the display title as needed.

4. Customizing the Host Section

1. In the "Hosted by" tab, click to add a host.
2. Choose from saved options or add a new host.

5. Setting Up Chat Widgets

1. Click on the chat widget dropdown.
2. Check the box next to Facebook Messenger.
3. Add the same URL you used for the "Message me directly" button.

6. Adding Multiple Chat Options

1. Keep the Facebook Messenger icon for users familiar with the platform.
2. Use the custom chat option to add a generic message icon for broader appeal.
3. Ensure you add a URL destination for this second button as well.

Best Practices for Click-to-Chat Implementation

1. Align with Ministry Goals: Ensure your chat prompts and interactions align with your spiritual and community objectives.
2. Customize for Your Audience: Tailor your chat widgets and prompts to resonate with your specific audience.
3. Provide Clear Instructions: Make sure users understand how to engage with your chat features.
4. Monitor and Adapt: Regularly review engagement metrics and adjust your strategies based on user interactions.
5. Ensure Timely Responses: If offering real-time chat, make sure you have team members available to respond promptly.
6. Integrate with Other Platforms: Consider integrating your chat features with popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp for broader reach.

By implementing these click-to-chat strategies in NextSteps, you can create more engaging and interactive digital journeys for your ministry. Remember, the goal is to foster meaningful connections and provide support to your audience through these digital tools.For more detailed information on using NextSteps and its features, visit the NextSteps Support Page. Additionally, explore the Jesus Film Project Tools for more resources to enhance your digital ministry efforts.