Read this page as a quick path: scan the headings, use the step blocks, and escalate if the expected result does not happen.
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n8n is an open-source workflow automation tool that can be self-hosted or used via n8n Cloud. Referral Factory has a native n8n node with a dedicated Qualify User action, so you can qualify leads directly — no raw HTTP requests needed.
This is a great option if you do not use HubSpot, Salesforce, Stripe, or Intercom, or if your qualification trigger lives in a tool that doesn't have a native Referral Factory integration. It is especially useful if you prefer a self-hosted automation solution for full data control.
How it works
You build a workflow in n8n with two nodes:
1. Trigger node — watches for a conversion event in your system (e.g. new Stripe payment, new row in a spreadsheet, webhook from your app)
2. Referral Factory node — uses the Qualify User action to mark the matching lead as qualified
Three ways to qualify
The Qualify User action supports three identification methods. Choose the one that matches the data your trigger provides:
| Method | When to use |
|---|---|
| By email address | You have the lead's email. This is the most common method — map the customer email from your trigger to the Referral Factory qualification field. |
| By referral code | You have the lead's unique referral code. Useful when your system stores the referral code used during sign-up or purchase. |
| By coupon code | You have the coupon code the lead redeemed. Best for e-commerce or subscription workflows where leads convert using a coupon. |
Setting it up
1. In n8n, create a new workflow
2. Add a trigger node for your conversion event source (e.g. Stripe trigger for new payments, Webhook node, or a specific app trigger)
3. Click + and search for Referral Factory
4. Select the Qualify User action
5. Connect your Referral Factory account using your API Key when prompted
6. Choose your identification method (email, referral code, or coupon code)
7. Map the relevant field from your trigger node to the Referral Factory qualification field
8. Select the correct campaign
9. Click Test workflow to verify the lead is marked as qualified in Referral Factory
10. Activate the workflow
You can find your API Key on the Promote page → Custom API Dashboard card (the API Integration panel). See Where to find your Campaign ID and API Key.
Example workflows
Qualify on Stripe payment:
Trigger: Stripe — New Payment → Action: Referral Factory — Qualify User (map customer email)
Qualify on webhook event:
Trigger: Webhook node (receives POST from your app) → Action: Referral Factory — Qualify User (map email from payload)
Qualify on spreadsheet update:
Trigger: Google Sheets — New Row → Action: Referral Factory — Qualify User (map email column)
Qualify on e-commerce purchase:
Trigger: Shopify — New Order → Action: Referral Factory — Qualify User (map customer email or coupon code)