Push notifications can be one of the most effective ways to engage your audience. But getting users to opt in is all about timing, messaging, and value. Ask too soon, and they might say no forever. Wait too long, and they could abandon the app before you even have the chance. Let’s break down exactly how to make the ask—at the right moment and in the right way—with actionable steps (and a little help from Appcues, of course).

What is a push messages prompt (and why timing matters)

A push messages prompt (or push primer) is the critical moment when your app asks users to enable push notifications. It’s your one chance to convince them to say yes. And the timing of this prompt can make or break your opt-in rates. 

Why push notifications are worth it

Push notifications are more than just a convenient nudge—they’re a direct line to your users, bringing them back to your app when it matters most. Whether it’s a timely reminder, an exciting update, or a personalized offer, push notifications keep your app top of mind and help drive meaningful engagement.

• Higher engagement: Push notifications boast up to 90% open rates on mobile compared to email (Accengage).
• Retention superpowers: Apps that send push notifications see retention rates 3-10x higher (Leanplum).
• Immediate impact: Reach your users instantly, wherever they are (Business of Apps).

But here’s the catch: They can’t work their magic unless users say yes. Let’s make sure they do.

Write a winning push primer

A push primer is your chance to make a great first impression. Think of it as your elevator pitch: short, sweet, and packed with value. Here’s how to craft one that gets a thumbs-up:

1. Lead with value (not what you want)

Users don’t care about your notification goals—they care about what’s in it for them. Spell it out clearly and compellingly.

Example:
“Stay in the loop with real-time updates on your favorite features.”

2. Keep it short and snappy

Attention spans are short. Your push primer should be shorter.

Example:
“Don’t miss a beat! Get notified when your projects move forward.”

3. Add a dash of personality

Make it fun, relatable, and human. Bonus points if you can sneak in a bit of wit.

Example:
“We promise: no spam, just the good stuff. Tap ‘Allow’ to stay connected.”

4. Use a clear call-to-action (CTA)

Your CTA should make it obvious what users need to do—and why they should do it right now.

Example:
“Tap ‘Allow’ to get updates when new features drop!”

‍Push notification opt-in examples done right

Want some inspiration? Here are a few standout push notification opt-in examples that work:

• Fitness app: “Ready to crush your goals? Tap ‘Allow’ for personalized workout reminders!”
• E-commerce app: “Get exclusive deals before anyone else. Turn on notifications now!”
• Productivity app: “Never miss a deadline! Enable notifications to stay on track.”

How to send push primers with Appcues

Appcues makes it ridiculously easy to set up push primers that feel like a natural extension of your app. Here’s how to do it:

1. Create a mobile Flow: Open Appcues and start a new mobile Flow.
2. Design your primer: Add a step that introduces the value of push notifications with an engaging message.

3. Enable push permission prompt: Select "Prompt push permission" as the button action. When users click the "Allow" button, they’ll be prompted directly with their device's push notification settings, making it simple for them to opt in.

4. Customize the Flow: Adjust the look and feel to match your app’s branding (because consistency is 👑).

5. Publish and Test: Roll out your flow and test it to ensure everything works seamlessly.

Pro Tip: Timing matters

With Appcues, you can ensure your Flow appears at just the right moment. Trigger it after users achieve something meaningful—like completing a key activation step or wrapping up an onboarding milestone—when they’re already engaged and more likely to say yes.

How to start sending push notifications

Once users have opted in, it’s time to get those push notifications rolling. Here’s how to make it happen with Appcues:

1. Set up a workflow: In Appcues, create a workflow to manage your push notification campaigns

2. Define your segment: Configure a targeted segment of your app like “Users who have been inactive” or “New users who haven’t used X feature”.

3. Craft your message: Write a notification that’s personalized, timely, and action-oriented based on who you’re talking to and what you’re trying to get them to do.some text
   • Example: “You’ve got new insights! Check your analytics dashboard now.”

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4. Test and iterate: Use the built-in analytics to track performance and tweak your messaging over time. Plus, you can easily add follow-up messages that send if users see the first message, but don’t take the desired action.

Pro Tip: Add some multi-channel magic

With Appcues multi-channel messaging, you can pair push notifications with emails for a connected experience. Example: Send an email teaser about a new feature and follow up with a push notification when it’s live.

Ready to push the right buttons?

Push notifications are a powerful tool to keep users engaged, but only if you get them to opt in first. By leading with value, crafting the perfect push message prompt, and using Appcues to deliver, you’ll be well on your way to turning hesitant users into loyal fans. And hey, if you’re ready to learn more, schedule a demo with our team today. 💪

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