Introduction
Tired of losing leads because you didn’t reply fast enough?
What if you could instantly follow up with every new lead automatically by text message?
Well, you’re in luck. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to set up text follow-up automation using GoHighLevel — the same system used by 7-figure marketers and smart small business owners to convert more leads on autopilot. And if you’re new to GoHighLevel, I’ve got a special free trial link with bonus workflows at the end of this post.
Why Text Follow-Up Matters More Than Ever
Here’s the truth:
🔔 78% of customers buy from the first business that replies.
If you’re taking longer than 5 minutes to respond to a new lead, they’re likely gone.
GoHighLevel lets you build automated workflows that text your leads instantly, continue following up, and even book appointments — without you lifting a finger.
Let me show you how.
Step-by-Step: Build a Text Follow-Up Workflow in GoHighLevel
Step 1: Capture the Lead
First, create a lead form or landing page inside GoHighLevel:
- Go to Sites > Funnels (or Forms)
- Choose a template or build a new one
- Add fields like Name, Phone, Email
💡 Tip: Always make “Phone” required so you can text them!
Step 2: Create the Workflow
Now go to Automation > Workflows, and click + Create Workflow.
Here’s what to add:
Trigger: “Form Submitted”
- Choose the form you just built
- OR use “Funnel Step Form Submitted”
Action 1: Send SMS
- Use a dynamic message like:
Hey {{contact.first_name}}, thanks for reaching out! 👋
This is [Your Name] — I just saw your message and wanted to say hi.
Have a sec to chat?Action 2: Wait 1 Hour
You can now build smart delays.
Action 3: Conditional Reply
- Did they reply? If YES → Stop workflow
- If NO → Send a second SMS like:
Just following up — let me know if you’re still interested! 👍You can repeat this with as many follow-ups as you want, like a virtual sales assistant that never sleeps.
Step 3: Test the Workflow
Before going live, use your own number to test the flow.
Check that messages are sent correctly
Make sure reply detection works
Watch your new leads flow in
Bonus: Book Appointments Automatically
Want to take it even further?
Add a calendar booking link in the first or second message:
You can grab a time that works for you here: [Insert your GHL calendar link]Let GoHighLevel handle appointment reminders, confirmations, and even no-show follow-ups.
Summary & Insights
Automation isn’t about replacing human connection — it’s about creating more of it. Using GoHighLevel to follow up by text means you never leave a lead hanging again, and you can scale your business without burning out.
