How to Use Countdown Timers in Funnels

What Is a Countdown Timer?

A countdown timer is a visual element that displays the remaining time until a specific event or deadline. In your CRM, you can create custom countdown timers and embed them in funnels or websites to encourage urgency and prompt action—ideal for flash sales, limited-time promotions, or event registrations.

Key Benefits of Countdown Timers

• Urgency and Scarcity: Real-time countdowns motivate visitors to act quickly.
• Multiple Timer Types: Choose from Fixed, Recurring, or Dynamic timers to suit various campaign needs.
• Reusable Design: Apply the same timer across multiple pages or funnels without recreating it.
• Styling Control: Customize fonts, colors, sizes, and visible time units to align with your brand.

How to Create a Countdown Timer

First, design your timer in the Marketing section before placing it in a funnel.

1. Go to Marketing > Countdown Timers.
2. Click the + New button to create a new timer.
3. Select a template and click Continue with Template.
4. Under the General tab, choose a Timer Type:
   • Fixed: Ends at a specific date and time.
   • Recurring: Resets at regular intervals (e.g., daily or weekly).
   • Dynamic: Adjusts based on individual contact interactions (ideal for emails).
5. Set the Timer End Date, select a Time Zone, and define a Redirect URL if desired.
6. Optionally, enable Adapt to Contact Time Zone to adjust the timer based on the viewer's location.
7. Under the Style tab, choose which time units to display (e.g., hours, minutes, seconds) and customize the timer’s appearance using the available controls.

Add the Countdown Timer to a Funnel

You can add your timer using either the HTML Countdown Timer element (for CRM-based funnels) or the Code Block element (for external platforms).

Using the HTML Countdown Timer Element

This method is best for funnels built entirely within your CRM.

1. Navigate to Sites > Funnels.
2. Select your funnel and click Edit Page on the desired step.
3. In the builder, click the + icon to open the Add Element panel.
4. Select Countdown Timers.
5. Choose from your list of existing timers and drag it into the page.

Using the Code Block Element

Use this method to embed your timer on third-party platforms.

1. Go to Marketing > Countdown Timers and click on the timer you want to use.
2. Click Copy Code in the top right, then Copy in the pop-up.
3. Open your funnel under Sites > Funnels and edit the page.
4. Click the + icon, select the Code element, and drag it to the desired location.
5. Click the code block, open the editor, and paste the copied code.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Fixed, Recurring, and Dynamic timers?

Fixed timers end at a specific global date/time. Recurring timers reset after a set interval (e.g., daily at 9 AM). Dynamic timers start counting down when a contact interacts with an email or page.

Can timers be used in multiple funnels?

Yes. Once created, a timer can be reused in any funnel or website via either embedding method.

Can I use timers in third-party website builders?

Yes. Use the Copy Code feature and paste the snippet into your external platform.

Can I update a timer without breaking existing placements?

Yes. Changes made to a timer automatically update everywhere it’s used. To edit, go to Marketing > Countdown Timers and click Edit on the timer.