How to Set Up Automated Follow-Up Sequences for Your Small Business in Under an Hour

You know you should be following up your leads more consistently. You know automation is the answer. You just haven’t got around to setting it up. This is your prompt. And proof that it doesn’t have to take long.

Step 1: Decide which sequence to build first (10 minutes)

Pick the one sequence that will have the biggest immediate impact. For most small businesses, that’s the new enquiry follow-up. Other good starting points: quote follow-up, missed call text back, or post-service review request.

Step 2: Map out the sequence (15 minutes)

• How many messages to send

• What channel each message uses (email, SMS, or both)

• What each message says

• How many days between each message

Step 3: Write your messages (20 minutes)

Message 1 — immediate SMS

“Hi [Name], thanks for getting in touch! We’ll be back to you shortly. Reply with any questions.”

Message 2 — Day 2 email

“Hi [Name], just following up on your enquiry. I’d love a quick chat to understand what you’re looking for. Are you free this week? [Booking link]”

Message 3 — Day 5 SMS

“Hi [Name], just checking in. We still have availability and would love to help. Book a time here: [link]”

Step 4: Build it in dAIsy (10 minutes)

1. Click Create workflow

2. Set your trigger (new contact added, form submitted, missed call)

3. Add your messages in order with delays between each

4. Preview and test on yourself

5. Switch it on

dAIsy includes pre-built sequence templates. Try it free for 7 days. Your first automated follow-up could be live within the hour.