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Getting Started with Countdown Timer in Stack

Boost your marketing efforts with Stack's Countdown Timer, designed to increase conversions by creating a sense of urgency.

Table of Contents

What is a Countdown Timer?

A countdown timer is a visual tool that counts down to a specific deadline, encouraging users to act before time runs out. It's an effective feature for sales, launches, or limited-time offers.

Benefits of Countdown Timers

  • Creates Urgency: Encourages immediate action by visibly counting down.
  • Increases Conversions: Can boost conversion rates significantly.
  • Promotes Exclusivity: Highlights special, time-sensitive deals.
  • Enhances Engagement: Keeps users engaged on your page longer.

When to Use a Countdown Timer

Countdown timers are versatile and can enhance various types of emails:

  • Retail: Highlight time remaining for promotions or delivery deadlines.
  • Fashion: Build anticipation for new collections or events.
  • Travel: Show time left before departure.
  • Media: Remind subscribers about subscription expirations.
  • Events: Count down to an event or ticket sale deadlines.
  • Non-profits: Create urgency for donation matching.
  • Transactional Emails: Build excitement for upcoming events.

Types of Countdown Timers

Fixed Timer

  • Description: Counts down to a specific date and time.
  • Usage: Perfect for events like Black Friday sales.

Recurring Timer

  • Description: Resets after reaching zero, ideal for ongoing promotions.
  • Usage: Weekly class countdowns.

Dynamic Timer

  • Description: Personalized for each user based on actions.
  • Usage: Offers that expire based on user behavior.

Key Considerations

  • Design and Style: Ensure the timer matches your brand's aesthetics.
  • Placement: Position prominently, such as at the top of emails or landing pages.
  • Redirections: Set up links for both active and expired states.
  • Consistency: Keep timers consistent across platforms.
  • Expiry Image: Inform users when the timer ends with a clear message or image.
  • Active Timer Link: Directs users to the active offer page. Ensure the same timer is used on this page for seamless redirection.
  • Expired Timer Link: Takes users to a page indicating the offer has ended. In emails, this appears as an expired image linking to the expired page.

Creating a Countdown Timer

  1. Navigate to Marketing: Go to the "Marketing" section and select "Countdown Timer."
  2. Click on New: Start creating your timer by clicking the "New" button.
  3. Select a Template: Choose a design template and click "Continue with this template."
  4. Choose Timer Type: Decide between Fixed, Recurring, or Dynamic timers.
  5. Configure Timer Details:
    • Fixed Timer: Set the end date and time.
    • Recurring Timer: Define countdown duration and loops.
  6. Add Links:
    • Active Link: Specify the URL for when the timer is active.
    • Expired Link: Specify the URL for after the timer expires.
  7. Customize Styling: Adjust colors, fonts, expiry images, and display format.
  8. Rename Timer: Give your timer a descriptive name.
  9. Save: Click "Save" to finalize and activate your countdown timer.

Use these guidelines to effectively incorporate countdown timers into your marketing strategy with Stack.