GoHighLevel Start IVR Workflow Trigger Guide
The Start IVR workflow trigger in GoHighLevel lets you launch an interactive voice response (IVR) call menu whenever a specific inbound number is dialed. If you are familiar with tools like ClickUp for organizing processes, this IVR trigger works as the automation starting point for call flows inside your GoHighLevel workflows.
This guide walks you through enabling, configuring, and using the Start IVR trigger so you can build simple or advanced phone menus for your business or clients.
What the GoHighLevel Start IVR Trigger Does
The Start IVR trigger is a workflow entry point. When a contact calls a specified number, the workflow begins and plays your IVR menu. From there, the contact can:
- Hear a greeting and menu options
- Press keys to select departments or actions
- Be routed to another number or a user
- Trigger follow-up automation in GoHighLevel
This trigger is essential when you want structured call handling instead of sending every call to a single phone or voicemail.
How to Add the GoHighLevel Start IVR Trigger
Follow these steps to add the Start IVR trigger to a workflow:
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Navigate to Automation > Workflows in your GoHighLevel account.
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Click New Workflow or open an existing workflow where you want to add IVR.
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In the workflow builder, click Add Trigger at the top.
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From the trigger list, search for and select Start IVR.
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Click Save Trigger to attach it to the workflow.
Once added, the workflow will be ready to respond to incoming calls on the number you configure.
Configuring the GoHighLevel Start IVR Trigger
After you add the Start IVR trigger, you must set its conditions so GoHighLevel knows when to fire it.
Choose the Inbound Number
The key setting in the Start IVR trigger is the Phone Number field. This defines which inbound number will start the IVR workflow.
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In the trigger settings panel, locate the Phone Number dropdown.
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Select the specific phone number you want to attach to this IVR workflow.
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Ensure that the selected number is active and assigned to your location.
Only calls to this chosen number will enter the workflow via the Start IVR trigger.
Set Additional Trigger Filters (If Available)
Depending on your GoHighLevel configuration, you may see additional filters or conditions. Common examples include:
- Call Direction (usually inbound for IVR)
- Call Status or similar call-related attributes
For a typical IVR menu, you simply need the correct inbound number selected. More advanced use cases may layer extra conditions.
Designing the IVR Flow in GoHighLevel
With the Start IVR trigger configured, you can design the call path that runs after the trigger fires.
Build the Main IVR Menu
Inside the same workflow, add actions below the Start IVR trigger to create your voice menu. Typical steps include:
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Add a Play Message or similar IVR action to play a greeting (for example, “Press 1 for Sales, 2 for Support”).
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Use IVR-related actions (such as keypress branches) to capture the caller’s input.
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Create separate branches for each keypress option.
Design your prompts so callers clearly understand which options are available and how to proceed.
Route Calls to Teams or Numbers
Within each branch, you can configure how GoHighLevel handles the call:
- Forward the call to a specific team member
- Ring a group or department number
- Send the caller to voicemail
- Trigger internal automation such as task creation or notifications
By combining the Start IVR trigger with these routing actions, you can build a complete call tree.
Best Practices for a GoHighLevel IVR Workflow
To keep your IVR efficient and user-friendly, consider the following tips when working in GoHighLevel:
- Keep menus short: Limit the number of options so callers do not get confused.
- Use clear language: Speak slowly and clearly in your recorded messages.
- Offer an escape: Provide an option to reach a live agent where appropriate.
- Test thoroughly: Place real calls to your number and try all menu options.
- Monitor performance: Review call logs and workflow metrics to see how callers use the menu.
These practices help ensure your IVR enhances, rather than frustrates, the caller experience.
Testing Your GoHighLevel Start IVR Setup
Before you roll out your IVR to customers, verify that everything in GoHighLevel works as expected.
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Double-check that the correct inbound phone number is selected in the Start IVR trigger.
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Publish or turn on the workflow so it is active.
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Use a separate phone and call the configured number.
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Listen to the greeting and follow each menu path.
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Confirm that calls are routed properly to the right users, departments, or voicemail boxes.
If something does not behave as planned, return to the workflow builder, adjust the actions or trigger settings, and test again until the call flow is flawless.
Where to Learn More About GoHighLevel IVR
For deeper reference on the Start IVR trigger and any new options that may be added, review the official documentation provided by the platform. You can view the original support article here: GoHighLevel Start IVR trigger documentation.
If you are building larger automation architectures, CRM systems, or multi-location setups around GoHighLevel, you may benefit from strategic consulting and implementation support. Visit Consultevo for expert help with CRM design, marketing operations, and workflow optimization strategies.
Summary: Using the GoHighLevel Start IVR Trigger
The Start IVR trigger in GoHighLevel allows you to launch a structured phone menu whenever a contact calls a designated number. By:
- Adding the Start IVR trigger to a workflow
- Selecting the correct inbound phone number
- Designing menu prompts and branches
- Routing each option to the correct destination
- Testing and refining the full call path
You can deliver a professional IVR experience that routes callers efficiently and supports your overall automation strategy within GoHighLevel.
Need Help With ClickUp?
If you want expert help building, automating, or scaling your GHL , work with ConsultEvo — trusted GoHighLevel Partners.
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