@trigger_playbook
What it does
Triggers a jump to another playbook and immediately executes its first step. Use this to chain playbooks together, branch to specialized flows, or create modular conversation structures.
When to use it
- When you want to hand off control to a different playbook mid-conversation
- To create modular playbooks that can be reused across different flows
- For complex branching where different user paths should lead to entirely different playbook experiences
- When you want to separate concerns (e.g., qualification playbook triggers booking playbook)
Can combine with
- Can appear in branching logic to route different user responses to different playbooks
- Should typically be the last tool in a step (similar to
@stop_playbook)
- Can be used alongside other tools in the same step, but will execute the target playbook after
Syntax
In the playbook editor, type
@trigger_playbook and select the target playbook from the popup:@trigger_playbook [Playbook Name]
Configuration
Requirements:
- You must have at least 2 playbooks created to use this tool
- The target playbook must exist and be active
Tool Settings:
- No additional configuration required
- Select the target playbook from the dropdown when inserting the tool
Examples
Basic usage - end of playbook handoff:
1. @ask_question: "What brings you here today?" @show_options["Sales inquiry", "Technical support", "Billing question"] - If "Sales inquiry", proceed to Step 2. - If "Technical support", proceed to Step 3. - If "Billing question", proceed to Step 4. 2. @trigger_playbook [Sales Qualification] 3. @trigger_playbook [Support Triage] 4. @trigger_playbook [Billing Help]
With qualification before handoff:
1. @ask_question: "What is your company size?" @show_options["1-50", "51-500", "500+"] - If "1-50", proceed to Step 2. - If "51-500", proceed to Step 3. - If "500+", proceed to Step 3. 2. @mention_specifically: "Thanks! Let me connect you with our SMB team." 3. @trigger_playbook [SMB Lead Capture] 4. @mention_specifically: "Great! Let me connect you with our Enterprise team." 5. @trigger_playbook [Enterprise Lead Capture]
Combined with other tools:
1. @ask_question: "Would you like to schedule a demo or learn more about pricing?" @show_options["Schedule demo", "Pricing info"] - If "Schedule demo", proceed to Step 2. - If "Pricing info", proceed to Step 3. 2. @mention_specifically: "Perfect! Let me help you book a demo." @trigger_playbook [Demo Booking] 3. @recommend: pricing information. @stop_playbook
How it works
- When
@trigger_playbookis executed, the current playbook immediately stops
- The target playbook is loaded and begins execution from Step 1
- The conversation context and collected information carry over to the new playbook
- The target playbook runs independently until it reaches
@stop_playbookor triggers another playbook
Tips
- Modular design: Create reusable playbooks for common flows (lead capture, booking, support) and trigger them from multiple entry points
- Keep it simple: Avoid creating chains of more than 2-3 playbook jumps to prevent confusion
- Test thoroughly: Test the full path through triggered playbooks to ensure smooth transitions
- Name playbooks clearly: Use descriptive names since users will see the playbook name when you insert the tool
- One-way flow: Remember that triggering a playbook is a one-way handoff - the original playbook won't resume
Common Patterns
Router playbook:
1. @ask_question: "How can I help you today?" @show_options["Buy a product", "Get support", "Learn more"] - If "Buy a product", proceed to Step 2. - If "Get support", proceed to Step 3. - If "Learn more", proceed to Step 4. 2. @trigger_playbook [Purchase Flow] 3. @trigger_playbook [Support Flow] 4. @trigger_playbook [Information Flow]
Qualification with escalation:
1. @ask_question: "What is your annual budget for this solution?" @show_options["Under $10k", "$10k-$50k", "Over $50k"] - If "Under $10k", proceed to Step 2. - If "$10k-$50k" or "Over $50k", proceed to Step 3. 2. @mention_specifically: "Thanks for your interest! Check out our self-service options on our website." @stop_playbook 3. @trigger_playbook [High-Value Lead Capture]
Learn More
- Getting Started with Playbooks - Overview and all tools
- Core Concepts & Structure - Understanding playbook structure
- Complete Playbook Examples - See examples in context
- Best Practices & Tips - Expert guidance