Customers often prefer to send a WhatsApp message rather than fill a form or write an email. If your business makes it easy to start a chat, you will often get more enquiries.
Use WhatsApp Business
The free WhatsApp Business app lets you add your business name, address, hours, a short description and a catalogue of products or services.
Put a WhatsApp button everywhere
Add a WhatsApp link to your website, Instagram bio, Google Business Profile and ads. A link can open the chat with a message already typed, such as "Hello, I would like to know about your services".
Click-to-WhatsApp ads
On Instagram and Facebook, you can run ads whose button opens a WhatsApp chat. This suits businesses where customers like to ask questions first, such as clothing, food, classes and local services.
Reply fast, and say who you are
Set an away message for when you are busy, and a greeting that tells people what you do. Try to reply within a few minutes during working hours.
Keep customers informed, not annoyed
Message people only after they have contacted you or agreed to hear from you. Send broadcasts only to people who have opted in, follow WhatsApp's business messaging rules, and offer a way to stop messages.
Track what happens
Note how many chats start, how many turn into visits or orders and which ad or post brought them. Without this, you cannot tell what is working.
Questions, answered.
- Is WhatsApp Business free?
- The WhatsApp Business app is free to use. Some features offered through the WhatsApp Business Platform for larger businesses are paid.
- What is a click-to-WhatsApp ad?
- It is an Instagram or Facebook ad whose button opens a WhatsApp chat with your business, so people can ask questions straight away.
- Can I send promotional messages to anyone on WhatsApp?
- No. Message people who have contacted you or agreed to hear from you, and offer an easy way to opt out.