Getting Started with n8n: A Friendly Guide to Workflow Automation
Want to automate repetitive tasks, connect your favorite apps, or build powerful workflows—without writing tons of code? That’s where n8n comes in.
n8n (short for “node-to-node”) is an open-source automation tool that helps you connect 400+ apps, databases, and services using a visual editor. Whether you’re syncing your CRM with a messaging platform or automating a customer journey, n8n gives you full control.
What Makes n8n so great?
Open Source & Self-Hosted
You can run n8n on your own server - great for keeping your data private and staying in control.Connects with 400+ Tools
Plug into CRMs, cloud platforms, databases, marketing tools, and more.Drag-and-Drop Editor
Build automations visually. Just drag nodes, connect them, and go.Real-Time Triggers
Use webhooks to kick off workflows instantly when something happens—like a new lead or a form submission.Advanced Workflow Logic
Add filters, conditions, and even custom code if you want to get fancy.Custom API Support
Got a tool that’s not natively supported? Use the HTTP Request node to connect to any REST API.
App Marketplace n8n Features
When using your n8n integration, you can now explore multiple settings in the n8n App Marketplace to help your workflows run more seamlessly.
What Can You Automate with n8n?
Here are just a few ideas:
Send SMS or email campaigns when your CRM updates.
Sync contact info between tools automatically.
Trigger real-time actions (like sending a Slack message) when a form is submitted.
Set up multi-step customer journeys.
Connect healthcare systems (like EHRs) with messaging or scheduling tools.
Run marketing campaigns, score leads, or track outreach progress.
How to Set Up n8n (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose How You Want to Use n8n
Option 1: Self-Hosted (for Full Control)
If you’re comfortable using Docker, this is the most flexible and secure option.
Here’s how to install it:
Install Docker & Docker Compose.
Download the official Docker Compose file for n8n.
Set your environment variables (domain, SSL, etc.).
Run n8n:
docker-compose up -d
Visit your instance at
http://localhost:5678or your domain.
Option 2: n8n Cloud (Fast & Easy)
Prefer a no-hassle setup? Just sign up for n8n Cloud and log in to start building right away.
Step 2: Explore the Workflow Editor
Log into the n8n UI.
You’ll see a big canvas where you can drag and connect “nodes.”
Each node represents a step in your automation—like sending a message, updating a spreadsheet, or calling an API.
Step 3: Connect to Your Favorite Apps
A. Use Built-In Nodes
Search for an app (e.g., Slack, Google Sheets, Salesmsg).
Drag its node onto the canvas.
Authenticate using OAuth, an API key, or whatever the app requires.
Set up the action (like “send message” or “create row”).
B. Connect to Any API (Using HTTP Request Node)
Need to use an app that doesn’t have a native node?
Drag the HTTP Request node onto the canvas.
Choose the method (GET, POST, etc.).
Enter the URL, headers, and request body.
Add your authentication (e.g., API key or token).
Map fields to send or receive data.
C. Use Webhooks to Trigger Workflows
Want your workflow to start when something happens in another app?
Drag a Webhook node to the canvas.
Set the method (usually POST).
Copy the webhook URL.
Paste that URL into the external app’s settings to send data to n8n.
Continue your flow from there!
Step 4: Example — Connect Salesmsg with n8n
Here’s how you might use n8n and Salesmsg together:
Use a Webhook node to listen for incoming SMS or form data from Salesmsg.
Use an HTTP Request node to send messages back via Salesmsg’s API.
Build out your logic to trigger messages, sync contact data, or move leads through a workflow.
Common automation ideas:
Automatically send an SMS when a new CRM lead is added.
Process form submissions into text follow-ups.
Build multi-step sequences (e.g., wait 1 day → check response → send next message).
Step 5: Add Logic & Handle Errors
Want your workflows to be smart and reliable?
Use “If” nodes to create conditional paths.
Add Function nodes to write custom JavaScript when needed.
Include error handling nodes to catch failures and respond appropriately.
Chain multiple steps for powerful, end-to-end automation.
✅ You’re Ready to Automate!
n8n is super flexible - whether you're building simple triggers or advanced multi-step automations. Take it step-by-step, explore the editor, and join the community when you need help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I connect Salesmsg to n8n using webhooks?
To connect Salesmsg with n8n:
Create a Webhook node in n8n to receive events from Salesmsg (like new messages or form submissions).
Configure the webhook URL in your Salesmsg account to point to your n8n webhook.
Use HTTP Request nodes in your workflow to send data back to Salesmsg's API if needed.
Don’t forget to set up authentication and map fields between the two systems so data flows smoothly.
What technical skills do I need for n8n integrations?
You don’t need to be a developer - but having some tech know-how helps:
For basic workflows: familiarity with how APIs work, how HTTP requests are structured, and reading/writing simple JSON.
For advanced workflows: knowledge of JavaScript can be useful when using Function nodes to manipulate data or build custom logic.
Can I use n8n for free with Salesmsg integrations?
Yes! You have a couple of options:
Self-hosted n8n is free and lets you run unlimited workflows on your own server.
n8n Cloud has a free tier with limited executions. If you outgrow it, you can upgrade to a paid plan for more features and capacity.
What are common Salesmsg + n8n webhook automation examples?
Some popular automation use cases include:
Triggering SMS messages when a new lead is added to your CRM.
Sending automated replies when someone fills out a form on your site.
Syncing contacts between Salesmsg and your database or email platform.
Building multi-step sequences (e.g., send text → wait 1 day → check for reply → follow up).
Need Help? ✋🏻
Contact us on live chat or send an email to us at [email protected].