MailChimp Integration

Introduction

The Mailchimp Integration plugin offers a seamless way for eDirectory site managers to connect their Mailchimp account directly to their website. This powerful integration simplifies newsletter management by allowing you to configure and manage your email marketing campaigns from within the familiar eDirectory platform. By following the straightforward steps outlined below, you can integrate Mailchimp with your eDirectory site and begin leveraging the extensive capabilities of email marketing to engage and grow your audience.

Instructions:

Step 1: Accessing Mailchimp:

1. Navigate to the Mailchimp website: https://mailchimp.com/
2. Create a new Mailchimp account if you don't already have one, or log in to your existing Mailchimp account using your credentials.

Step 2: Obtaining Your Mailchimp API Key:

1. Once you are logged into your Mailchimp account, access your profile settings by clicking on your account name located in the top-right corner of the page.

2. From the dropdown menu, select the option "Account & billing."

3. On the "Account & billing" page, click on the "Extras" dropdown menu and choose the "API keys" option.

4. To generate a new API key, click the "Create a Key" button.

5. Provide a descriptive name for your API key (e.g., "eDirectory Integration") to help you identify its purpose later. Then, click on the "Generate Key" button.

6. Your new API key will be displayed. Crucially, you will only be able to see this key once. Ensure you copy it immediately by clicking on the "Copy To Clipboard" button before clicking the "Done" button.

Step 3: Configuring Mailchimp Integration in eDirectory:

1. Log in to your eDirectory Site Manager using your administrative credentials.
2. Navigate to the "Settings" section in the main menu and then click on "General Settings."

3. Within the "General Settings" page, click on the "Plugins" tab.

4. Locate the field labeled "MailChimp Integration Settings." Paste the API key you copied from Mailchimp in Step 2 into the designated text field.
5. Next, use the dropdown field below the API key field to choose the specific Mailchimp list you want to connect to your eDirectory newsletter signup form.

6. Finally, click the "Save Changes" button to apply the Mailchimp integration settings.

Step 4: Setting Up Your Mailchimp List:

Once the Mailchimp API key is successfully configured in your eDirectory settings:

• The Mailchimp list you selected will now be ready to automatically receive user registrations from individuals who sign up for your newsletter through the newsletter widget on your eDirectory site.

Step 5: Customizing the Newsletter Widget:

With the Mailchimp integration successfully established:

• A dedicated "Newsletter" widget will become available for you to insert onto any customizable pages within your eDirectory site using the Page Editor.
• To add the widget, navigate to "Design" in the main menu and click on "Page Editor." Select the specific page where you want to display the newsletter signup form (e.g., your homepage, a dedicated contact page).

• On the selected page, click on the "Add a widget" button.

• Locate the "Newsletter" option in the widget list and click to add the newsletter widget to your chosen area of the page.

• You can further customize the appearance and content of the newsletter widget using the available options, such as:
  • Title: Set a compelling title for your newsletter signup form (e.g., "Stay Updated," "Join Our Mailing List").
  • Description: Provide a brief and enticing description to encourage users to subscribe (e.g., "Get the latest news and exclusive offers delivered straight to your inbox!").
  • Background Image: Upload an optional background image to enhance the visual appeal and branding of the widget.

Conclusion

By diligently following these steps, you can effectively integrate your Mailchimp account with your eDirectory website, enabling you to seamlessly manage newsletters, build your subscriber list, and engage with your audience through targeted email marketing campaigns.