We know that the directory is the go-to destination for many of participants when looking for that perfect provider. Excitingly, Direct Connect means that when they find you, they can now request you contact them directly. It's like a Service Request, but only YOU receive it, meaning you're not competing with other providers.
1. Be found on our directory
As always, our directory is a great place to start for participants. To appear higher in the directory search results, ensure your profile is up to date and accurate, and loaded with those positive reviews. If a participant likes your profile, they can now select 'Connect me with this provider', either on your profile or directory listing.
2. We ask them to confirm their details
Once a participant selects 'Connect me with this provider', we then ask them to confirm their details. Not only this, but they also have to go through security checks either via SMS or email to verify that they're a real person. We won't send you a request unless they've done this. This way you know it's legitimate!
3. Receive requests and manage your Direct Connect dashboard
We'll send you their request using your preferred notification method, but we've also added a 'Direct Connect' tab to your Dashboard (see below). In this view, you can see all your Direct Connect requests in one place.
Please note: some of these will only have an email, as many participants have intimated that this is their preferred way for you to contact them. We've still verified that they're real, but when selected by the participant, only their emails will be visible.
4. Contact the participant
Once you receive a Direct Connect request, please contact the participant within one business day to offer your services. Although they've specifically asked for you, they might be urgently requiring support! Don't keep them waiting.
As you talk with the participant, you can add notes into their Direct Connect request and save these on your platform. If anything pertinent arises when talking to the participant, save it as a note!
Excitingly, a Direct Connect request does not count towards your credits. Winning.