Sharing Best Practices
Maximize verification completion rates with these best practices for sharing verification links with your users.
Communication Channels
Choose the right channel based on your use case and user preferences:
Best for: Non-urgent verifications, detailed instructions, audit trails. Include clear subject lines.
SMS / Messaging
Best for: Immediate verification needs, mobile-first users. Users can send via their own SMS, WhatsApp, or preferred messaging app.
In-App Message
Best for: Existing users in your app, contextual prompts, higher trust environment.
QR Code
Best for: In-person verification, kiosks, printed materials, easy mobile scanning.
Message Templates
Email Template
Subject: Action Required: Verify Your Identity
Hi [First Name],
To complete your account setup with [Company Name], we need to verify your identity. This is a quick, secure process that takes less than 2 minutes.
What you'll need:
• A valid government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or national ID)
• A device with a camera
Click here to verify your identity →
This link expires in 7 days.
Questions? Reply to this email or contact support@yourcompany.com.
Best,
The [Company Name] Team
SMS/Messaging Template
Template for when you send the link via your own SMS or messaging platform:
[Company]: Verify your identity to complete sign-up. Have your ID ready: verify.owl-eyes.com/v/abc123 (expires in 24h). Reply HELP for assistance.
Timing Recommendations
| Scenario | Recommended Timing | Expiration |
|---|---|---|
| New user onboarding | Immediately after signup | 24-48 hours |
| Financial transaction | Before transaction approval | 1-4 hours |
| Account recovery | Immediately when requested | 1 hour |
| Periodic re-verification | Business hours preferred | 7 days |
| Employment verification | During application process | 7-14 days |
Improving Completion Rates
- Explain why verification is needed
- List what documents are accepted
- Provide time estimate (usually 1-2 minutes)
- Include support contact for questions
- Send reminders for incomplete verifications
- Use mobile-friendly links (short URLs)
- Send links without context
- Use suspicious-looking shortened URLs
- Set unreasonably short expiration times
- Send too many reminders (max 2-3)
- Use threatening language about deadlines
Reminder Strategy
For incomplete verifications, follow this reminder cadence:
First Reminder (24 hours)
Gentle reminder that verification is still pending. Resend the original link with the same context.
Second Reminder (48-72 hours)
Emphasize the benefit of completing verification. Offer help if they encountered issues.
Final Notice (Day before expiration)
Clear message that the link is expiring soon. Mention they'll need to request a new one after expiration.