How to Customize the Default Message in GoHighLevel Chat Widgets

Customizing your chat widget greeting helps you guide conversations more effectively, even if your main project management lives in tools like ClickUp. In this guide, you will learn step by step how to change the pre-filled message that appears in your website chat widget inside GoHighLevel so visitors see an on-brand prompt the moment they open the chat.

The instructions below are based on the official GoHighLevel support documentation and walk you through every click required to update the customizable message field in your chat widgets.

Why Customize the Chat Widget Message in GoHighLevel?

The default message is the first text your website visitors see in the chat box. Updating this field inside GoHighLevel can help you:

• Prompt visitors to ask the right questions
• Highlight a special offer or promotion
• Clarify business hours or response expectations
• Keep your brand voice consistent across channels

By using the customizable message field correctly, you make it easier for leads to take the next step and for your team to handle conversations efficiently.

Accessing the Chat Widget Settings in GoHighLevel

Before you can edit the message field, you must open the correct settings area inside your GoHighLevel account.

1. Log in to your GoHighLevel account.
   Sign in with an account that has permission to manage chat widgets.

2. Navigate to the correct sub-account (location).
   If you manage multiple locations, choose the one where the website chat widget is installed.

3. Open the chat widget settings.
   From the left-hand navigation, go to your site or funnel settings where the chat widget is configured. Look for the chat widget configuration area as described in the official documentation here: GoHighLevel customizable message field in chat widgets.

Editing the Customizable Message Field in GoHighLevel

Once you are in the chat widget settings for the correct sub-account, follow these steps to edit the default text that appears for visitors.

1. Locate the message field.
   Inside the chat widget configuration panel, find the section labeled for the customizable message field or default message. This is where you will input the pre-filled text that visitors see in the chat box.

2. Click into the field to edit.
   Select the message field so you can type or paste your new text. This is usually a simple text box inside the GoHighLevel interface.

3. Enter your new default message.
   Type a short, clear prompt. For example:

   • “Hi there! How can we help you today?”
   • “Got questions about our pricing or services? Start a chat now.”
   • “Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll point you in the right direction.”

   Keep it concise so visitors immediately understand what to do.

4. Review for clarity and tone.
   Ensure the message matches your brand voice and sets the right expectations. If you have multiple team members using GoHighLevel, align the wording with your other customer-facing messages.

5. Save your changes.
   Use the save or update button in the chat widget settings area so your new message is stored and ready to display on your site.

Previewing the Chat Widget After Changes in GoHighLevel

After editing the customizable message field, it is important to confirm that the chat widget looks and behaves as expected on your website or funnel page.

1. Open the live page where the chat widget is installed.
   Visit the site, funnel, or page that is connected to your GoHighLevel chat widget.

2. Refresh the page.
   If the page was open already, refresh it so the browser loads the latest widget configuration.

3. Click the chat widget icon.
   Open the chat window and check the pre-filled message that appears in the text area or greeting space.

4. Verify the message.
   Confirm the wording, spelling, and formatting all appear correctly. If adjustments are needed, return to the chat widget settings in GoHighLevel, edit the field, save, and refresh the page again.

Best Practices for Writing Chat Widget Messages in GoHighLevel

Use these guidelines to craft an effective default message that works well inside your GoHighLevel chat widget:

Keep the GoHighLevel Chat Message Short and Clear

• Aim for one simple sentence.
• State exactly what you want the visitor to do, such as “Ask a question” or “Tell us about your project.”
• Avoid long paragraphs or complex instructions.

Align With Your Brand Voice in GoHighLevel

• Use the same tone you use in email, SMS, and other channels.
• Decide if your brand should sound formal, friendly, or casual, then match that in the chat greeting.
• Update the message whenever your brand positioning changes.

Set Expectations Clearly

• Mention if replies are live or may be delayed.
• Optionally state business hours, such as “We typically reply within a few minutes during business hours.”
• Let visitors know if they should leave contact details for follow-up.

Test and Improve Over Time

• Monitor how many chats are started after you change the message.
• Try different prompts to see which generates better engagement.
• Coordinate with your marketing and support teams so the GoHighLevel chat widget message supports your current campaigns.

Troubleshooting Message Updates in GoHighLevel

If your new message is not showing in the chat widget, try the following:

• Confirm you edited the correct widget. If you have multiple chat widgets or locations, make sure you updated the right one.
• Check that changes were saved. Re-open the settings area in GoHighLevel to verify the editable message still appears as you typed it.
• Clear your browser cache or try an incognito window. Cached scripts can sometimes delay updates from appearing on the live page.
• Verify the installation script. Ensure the website or funnel page is using the correct chat widget script from your GoHighLevel account.

If the issue continues, consult the official guide at this GoHighLevel help article or reach out to platform support.

Next Steps After Updating Chat Widgets in GoHighLevel

Once your customizable message field is configured, you can focus on other improvements to your customer journey. For example, you might:

• Refine your conversation scripts for sales and support teams.
• Integrate chat leads into your pipelines and automations.
• Align your on-site messages with email and SMS campaigns.

If you need strategic help implementing funnels, automation, and website conversion optimization around your GoHighLevel setup, you can explore consulting resources such as Consultevo for additional guidance.

By carefully customizing the message field in your chat widgets, you ensure every new visitor sees a clear, inviting prompt. This small change inside GoHighLevel can significantly increase engagement, improve lead quality, and create a smoother experience for both prospects and your internal team.

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