A simple way to boost email deliverability is to check, define, and resolve any errors with your domain's Domain Name System (DNS) records, like SPF and DKIM. These records help email recipients identify the authenticity of an email and its origin.
Effective February 2024, Google and Yahoo will be implementing stricter requirements for any businesses or entities that send commercial emails, in an effort to reduce email spam. Both platforms have already been blocking senders who have high spam complaints or missing domain records.
📚 Tip
Read more about these changes on the blog.
To help you keep a close eye on email deliverability, you can check if you're missing SPF and DKIM domain records, or if they're otherwise misconfigured, using HoneyBook's domain tester. Running this test will send a quick test email and provide you with targeted steps for resolving any issues, ensuring your emails are delivered as intended.
How to run the domain tester
Before you get started: The tester is available for members who have integrated their email with HoneyBook AND use a custom domain (e.g. @yourbusinessname.com, rather than @gmail.com).
If you use HoneyBook’s default email sending service ([email protected]), you automatically leverage our sending reputation and we handle Domain Name System (DNS) records for you.
1. Click your profile photo in the top right corner of your screen.
2. Select Company Settings.
3. Click the Integrations tab.
4. Under Email Integration, select Send Test Email.
We’ll send a quick test message, which automatically checks your domain’s DKIM and SPF records. You can run this test at any time to ensure all is running smoothly.
📣 Note
You won't see this email in your inbox; instead, refer back to your Integrations tab in HoneyBook to see if there are any errors.
If you receive an error message, locate the message below for more information and steps to resolve the issue.
Resolving an error message
Receiving an error when running the deliverability test indicates that there is an issue with your integrated email's DKIM or SPF configuration. Click on the error message below for steps and resources to resolve the issue.
📣 Note
While HoneyBook is able to check these records for you and notify you of any issues, defining DKIM and SPF is done entirely outside of HoneyBook. HoneyBook is not able to complete this process for you, and you will not need any information from, or enter any information into, your HoneyBook account.
Defining these records is done directly in your domain provider’s Domain Name System (DNS) settings.
Still have questions? Feel free to send us a message by clicking the Question Mark icon on any HoneyBook page. Our team is always happy to help!