Overview
Reach your guests through the most effective channel for each communication. From quick SMS check-in codes to detailed email itineraries, choose the right method to ensure your message is received and read.
Composing a New Message
-
Open Conversation or Start New
Select existing conversation or click "New Message"
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Select Recipient
Choose guest from list or search by name
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Choose Channel
Select Email, SMS, WhatsApp, or OTA channel
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Write Your Message
Type content or select a template
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Review and Send
Preview then click Send
Choosing the Right Channel
| Channel | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Detailed info, documents, formal messages | May not be read immediately | |
| SMS | Urgent updates, check-in codes, reminders | Character limits, costs per message |
| International guests, photos, two-way chat | Guest must have WhatsApp | |
| OTA Channel | Required for OTA guests (Airbnb, Booking.com) | Subject to platform rules |
Email Messages
Features
- Rich Formatting - Bold, italics, lists, links
- Attachments - PDFs, images, documents
- HTML Templates - Branded email designs
- Multiple Recipients - CC additional contacts
- Subject Lines - Customizable subjects
Composing Email
- Enter Subject Line
Clear, descriptive subject
- Compose Body
Use formatting toolbar as needed
- Add Attachments
Drag and drop or click to upload
- Preview
Check how email will appear
- Send
Click send button
SMS Messages
Character Limits
| Message Type | Character Limit |
|---|---|
| Single SMS | 160 characters (GSM-7 encoding) |
| With Unicode | 70 characters (emojis, special chars) |
| Long Messages | Split into multiple segments |
Best Practices for SMS
- Keep messages short and direct
- Include only essential information
- Avoid emojis to maximize character count
- Use URL shorteners for links
- Send time-sensitive info via SMS
WhatsApp Messages
Features
- Rich Media - Photos, videos, documents
- Read Receipts - Know when messages are read
- Low Cost - Economical for international
- Two-Way Chat - Full conversation support
WhatsApp Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Contact | Must use approved template message |
| Response Window | Free-form messaging for 24 hours after guest reply |
| Phone Number | Valid mobile number with WhatsApp installed |
| Opt-In | Guest consent for WhatsApp communication |
OTA Channel Messages
For guests from Airbnb, Booking.com, and other OTAs:
- Automatic Routing - Replies go through the original channel
- Policy Compliance - Messages follow platform guidelines
- No Contact Sharing - Don't share personal contact info
- Character Limits - Some platforms have message limits
Scheduling Messages
Send messages at the optimal time:
- Compose Message
Write your message as normal
- Click Schedule
Instead of Send, click Schedule
- Select Date/Time
Choose when to send
- Confirm
Message queued for scheduled time
Scheduled messages can be viewed and edited before they send.
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