> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.usehydra.co.za/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Get your first member

> Try joining with your own phone, then find the member in Hydra.

Use your own phone to see the joining experience before you share it with customers. A phone number that hasn't joined this business will show the first-time welcome.

## Join through WhatsApp

If **Home** shows a connected business number, choose **Open WhatsApp** and send a text such as `JOIN` or “Hi.” The reply welcomes you to the business. Hydra uses your WhatsApp profile name if it can.

## Or use the join link

On **Home**, choose **Open join page** or scan the QR. Enter your name and phone number, then confirm that you want to join. This works while WhatsApp is still being set up.

## Find the member

Go to **Members**, search for your phone number, and open the result. A new member has zero recorded visits and zero check-in points.

To try a visit, find the member in **Hydra Desk** and choose **Check in**. Check their updated points in the member profile. [Record a visit in Hydra Desk](/customers/check-in) walks through the staff steps.