This tutorial will explore the benefits, types, and best practices for using countdown timers effectively, as well as provide step-by-step instructions for creating one.
Benefits of Countdown Timers
Creates Urgency: Encourages immediate action by displaying the diminishing time available.
Increases Conversions: Timers can boost conversion rates by up to 27%.
Promotes Exclusivity: Highlights limited-time offers, making them feel more exclusive and enticing.
Enhances Engagement: Keeps users on your page longer and increases their interaction with your content.
When to Use a Countdown Timer
Countdown timers are versatile and can be integrated into various types of emails and campaigns to enhance effectiveness:
Retail: Indicate the time remaining for special promotions or delivery deadlines.
Media: Remind subscribers of the remaining time before their subscription expires.
Events: Count down to an event or the end of ticket pre-sales.
Transactional Emails: Build excitement for upcoming events, such as attendee notifications for conferences.
Steps to Create a Countdown Timer
Navigate to Countdown Timer
Go to the “Social Media & Emails” section and select “Countdown Timers.”
Click on New
Click the “New” button in the upper right-hand corner to start creating your timer.
Select a Template
Choose a design template and click “Continue with this template.”
Rename Timer
Give your timer a descriptive name by editing the name at the top.
Choose Timer Type
Select the type of timer you want: Fixed, Recurring, or Dynamic.
Fixed Timer
Description: Counts down to a set date and time. Ideal for holiday sales or product launches.
Usage: “Sale ends in 2 days!”
Recurring Timer
Description: Resets after reaching zero, useful for ongoing promotions.
Usage: “Weekly classes countdown” (resets weekly for the next class).
Dynamic Timer
Description: Personalized for each user based on actions, such as email opens.
Usage: “Your special offer expires in 1 hour” (based on user behavior).
Configure Timer Details
Fixed Timer: Set the end date and time.
Recurring Timer: Define the countdown duration and the number of loops.
Time Zone
Select the time zone in which the timer should be displayed from the dropdown menu.
Add Links
The Active Timer Link directs users to a page where they can take advantage of the current offer, such as an offer or checkout page. It's recommended to use the same countdown timer on this page so that users are automatically redirected to the expired page when the timer runs out. The Expired Timer Link, on the other hand, takes users to a page indicating that the timer has expired. In emails, an expired image will appear, linking to the expired page, and in funnels, the expired page will display automatically once the timer ends.
Active Link: Specify the URL users will be directed to while the timer is active.
Expired Link: Specify the URL users will land on after the timer expires.
Make sure to add both links before saving to ensure the dynamic links function correctly!
Customize Styling
Navigate to this tab to adjust the timer’s appearance, including colors, fonts, expiry images, and time display format.
Show
Choose which timer labels (seconds, minutes, hours, days) to display.
Typography
Edit the font styles used in the timer.
Color Options
Edit the colors used in the timer by utilizing the color selector or inputting the desired hex codes.
Expiration Image
Upload an image to replace the timer in your emails when it expires.
Save
Click “Save” to finalize and activate your countdown timer.
Countdown timers are a dynamic and effective way to boost user engagement and drive conversions by creating a sense of urgency. By understanding the different types of timers and best practices for implementation, you can leverage them to enhance your marketing efforts and achieve better results.
Key Considerations
Design and Style: Ensure the timer aligns with your brand’s aesthetic.
Placement: Position the timer prominently, such as at the top of an email or landing page.
Redirections: Set up functional links for both active and expired states to manage user flow effectively.
Consistency: Maintain consistent timers across emails and websites for authenticity.
Expiry Image: Use an image or message to inform users when the timer ends.