5 rules that transformed how we use n8n for production workflows (learned these the hard way after 100+ automations)
We've been running n8n workflows for everything from customer onboarding to content creation and these 5 principles have saved us countless hours of debugging and rework.
Here's what we've learned (Btw, if you don’t have a n8n account signup for one here, you won’t regret it → Link to signup)
Rule 1: Always use fallback models for AI agents
Your workflow shouldn't crash. We set up OpenAI/Claude as primary, and Gemini as backup. When GPT-4 hits rate limits, Gemini kicks in seamlessly.
So there's Zero downtime and zero manual intervention.
Rule 2: Set up error workflows for everything production-level
There is nothing worse than a silent failure in automation. Every critical workflow gets an error handler that pings our Telegram. When something breaks, we know within minutes. Include the error message, workflow name, and direct link to debug.
Rule 3: Use webhooks to trigger workflows from external tools
Don't limit yourself to n8n's built-in triggers. We fire workflows from GHL, Relevance, Zapier, custom apps built in bolt/cursor—anything with webhook support.
This makes n8n the central nervous system of our entire tech stack. One workflow can orchestrate actions across 5+ different platforms.
Rule 4: Split AI agents into focused segments
One agent trying to do everything is amateur hour and a sure way to get crappy outputs.
Instead: Research agent → Content agent → Formatting agent → Review agent.
Each has a specific prompt, specific context, specific output format. The handoff between agents is where the magic happens.
Rule 5: Use the think node on your AI agents
This single node improved our output quality by 40%.
I measured it.
It forces the AI to reason through the problem before responding. Think of it as giving your agent a moment to "think out loud." The difference in coherence and accuracy is dramatic.
These five golden rules matter because your AI agents will produce consistent, high-quality outputs.
Just some thoughts for the day.
P.S. I have sold over 100k worth of AI agents built in n8n. Reply back if you’d like to see a masterclass on how I’ve done it and ill send you the link.
📩 Need help with an AI idea / project?
Have something you’re trying to build, automate, or scale using AI?
Let my team help you figure it out.
We’ll take a look and get back to you with suggestions, resources, or a potential implementation plan — no strings attached.
🚀 Want to Make Money from AI?
We’re quietly launching a private beta program that trains a small group to become AI Implementers — People who help other founders install AI systems and get paid for it.
If you're interested in joining this early group…
👉 Reply with the word “implementer”
Until next time -
Jelani