> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ledsak.gitbook.io/docs-for-ledsak/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ledsak.gitbook.io/docs-for-ledsak/automation/delay-automation.md).

# Delay Automation

**Delay Automation** allows teams to introduce strategic delays between automated actions in workflows. This is useful for lead follow-up, scheduled communications, or any event-driven automation where timing matters.

***

###  1. Set the Rule About Delay Time

Before actions can be delayed, you must configure the delay parameters.

#### Steps:

1. **Define the Trigger**\
   Identify the event that starts the automation (e.g., lead created, lead update, Activity created, Activity updated).
2. **Set the Delay Rule**\
   Choose how long the system should wait before the next action occurs.

   **Delay Options:**

   * **Fixed Time Delay** (e.g., 30 min to 3 months)

***

 **2. Add Action Set as per Lead Follow-up**

Once the delay is configured, you define the actions that should happen after the delay expires.

#### Common Follow-Up Actions:

* Send follow-up email or SMS
* Assign lead to a sales team
* Move lead to next pipeline stage
* Trigger source, stage, user  (e.g., CRM updates)

#### How to Add:

1. Navigate to the **Automation Flow Builder**.
2. After the delay node, **add an action block**.
3. Choose the follow-up action (e.g., "Send Email", "Tag Lead", etc.)
4. Customize the message or operation as needed.

#### Example Flow:

```
[Lead Created] → [Delay 2 Hours] → [Send Email: "Thanks for your interest!"]
```

***

###  Best Practices

* Use delay strategically to avoid spamming leads.
* Match delay length to the lead's engagement window.
* Combine with conditional logic for personalized follow-ups.

***

### Use Case Example

**Use Case:** Lead submits a form at night. You want to follow up the next morning.

**Workflow:**

1. Trigger: Lead submits form
2. Delay: Wait until 9 AM next business day
3. Action: Send personalized welcome email