How to Set Up Your Email Account with Ministry Contacts ✉️

In this guide, we're going to walk through setting up your email account using Ministry Contacts. From configuring your domain to sending your first test email, we'll cover it all step-by-step. This post is designed to be comprehensive even if you're not particularly tech-savvy. By the end of this, you'll have your email domain verified and be ready to communicate professionally.

 Step 1: Access Email Services

To begin with, open the settings located at the bottom left of your Ministry Contacts dashboard. Click on “Email Services” and select the option to “Create a Dedicated Domain.” If you've already watched our video on setting up your domain, this will seem familiar. Otherwise, it's a good idea to watch that video first. It explains some foundational concepts that will be helpful here.

 Step 2: Enter Your Domain Details

Next, enter your domain. This domain can be acquired from providers such as Squarespace, GoDaddy, or Namecheap. You need to access the advanced DNS settings from your domain host. Each host has this feature, though it might look different. For instance, Squarespace has a more user-friendly interface compared to Namecheap, but both are equally effective.

Once you locate the advanced DNS settings, copy your domain and return to the Ministry Contacts platform. For the sake of this guide, we'll use "mail.ministryincrease.com" as a sub-domain.

 Step 3: Add DNS Records

Now it's time to add DNS records. This part involves going back and forth a bit, so patience is key. Start by adding a text (TXT) record. Go to your DNS settings, add a new record, and select TXT. Copy the host and paste it into the appropriate field. Do the same for the value, then save the record. Do the same for the rest of the records.

 Step 4: Verify Your Domain

After you've added all the necessary records, you need to verify the domain. This verification process may take a couple of minutes. You want to ensure that all the indicators are green, which means the domain is successfully verified. Once verified, you can proceed to use this domain for sending and receiving emails.

 Step 5: Test Sending an Email

To ensure everything is set up correctly, you'll want to test sending an email. Go to the marketing section and create a new email. Use a blank template and add elements like text headers or images. For this test, we'll use "[email protected]." If you see a green check indicating that the email is verified, you're good to go!

Now, write a subject line – and select a contact. Send the email and then check your inbox. You should receive it from the domain email you just set up and any responses will go to the same address.

 Back-and-Forth Communication

By enabling these domain settings, you can set up various email addresses under your verified domain. For example, you could have "[email protected]" or "[email protected]." Each email will function seamlessly, giving your email communications a professional edge.

 Conclusion

Setting up your domain for email with Ministry Contacts can seem daunting at first, especially if you're not technically inclined. However, once you have your DNS records squared away, the rest is straightforward and offers flexibility that platforms like Squarespace or Wix can't match. With multiple domains available under one subscription, you can create various websites and email addresses as needed.

We hope this guide has been useful. If you're still unsure about any steps, feel free to replay the video tutorial or consult additional resources. Happy emailing!