Launched in 2009, WhatsApp is a texting app that anyone can use to communicate with people Launched in 2009, WhatsApp is a texting app that anyone can use to communicate with people worldwide for free. While it’s been attracting fans at a large rate, even against behemoths like Instagram and TikTok (WhatsApp added almost 79 million US users alone in 2021), you may wonder what makes it so appealing to businesses — and if you should use it. (Spoiler: You should definitely be using it.)
WhatsApp is your secret weapon for building tighter, more personal connections with your audience. It’s like a direct line to your most engaged followers — where you can chat, share updates, send exclusive content, or even run VIP groups that feel like exclusive insider clubs.
Plus, WhatsApp’s broadcasting and group messaging features are perfect for keeping the buzz going without the noise of traditional social platforms. And with over 2 billion users globally, it’s a goldmine for reaching your audience exactly where they are — in real-time, with zero algorithm headaches.
Basically, if you’re not leveraging WhatsApp, you’re leaving a whole lot of connections (and potential revenue) on the table.
Like Facebook and Instagram, WhatsApp’s business app integrates marketing tools for small businesses. Companies can use WhatsApp to connect with shoppers and potential customers, improving engagement and delivering quick responses, ultimately boosting sales.
Let’s examine WhatsApp automation and consider how it can improve marketing and customer service communications.
What Is WhatsApp Automation Marketing?
WhatsApp is more than just a run-of-the-mill messaging app. Brands can leverage the WhatsApp API, WhatsApp Business app, and chatbots to automate conversations and message flows.
Businesses can apply for the WhatsApp Business API, which adds some (but not all) available automation features to the WhatsApp Business app.
Some of the marketing automation features available with WhatsApp include:
- Automated message flows. With the WhatsApp API, you can create a custom message flow of any size (including an entire conversation). You can use it to create auto-replies to FAQs, list customer service hours, or set up any response to reduce customer wait time.
- Automated sales process. You can automate your sales flow with a WhatsApp chatbot. The bot can ask about the customer’s intent, display the product catalog, offer assistance in choosing a product, and even enable instant checkout.
- Proactive messaging. Using the WhatsApp API, create proactive message templates that target customers who have opted to receive updates related to an order, appointment, service request, or payment.
- Interactive Voice Response (IVR) call deflection. Use this feature to send phone calls to WhatsApp. In your IVR system, you can assign a number that asks the user if they want to continue the conversation on WhatsApp. If they accept, they are automatically taken to WhatsApp to continue with an agent or a chatbot.
Read more about the WhatsApp API and the WhatsApp Business app.
Manychat’s partnership with WhatsApp began in October 2020, and we’ve been beta-testing automation features ever since. For example, Manychat is working with the Business API so that, by extension, Manychat users can send automated messages to their subscribers via WhatsApp Manychat.
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Why Should You Use WhatsApp for Marketing?
WhatsApp offers several ways to communicate with your customers beyond texting.
Companies can send customer communications, including shipping updates, appointment reminders, order notifications, tickets or boarding passes, product demos, surveys, support messages, and more, all through WhatsApp.
WhatsApp delivers messages instantly worldwide, and thanks to its end-to-end encryption, it is a secure platform.
As part of the Facebook ecosystem, WhatsApp allows you to support Facebook Shops. This support will enable consumers to message a business via WhatsApp with questions about products they see on Shops.
WhatsApp automation marketing can be a game-changer for you! Imagine having a virtual assistant that’s always on, engaging with your audience, answering questions, sending updates, and nurturing leads.
Here’s how it helps:
- Instant Engagement: Automate responses to FAQs, greet new subscribers, or even send personalized messages based on user actions — keeping your audience hooked.
- Boost Conversions: Use automated messages to follow up on abandoned carts, share special offers, or send reminders for events and webinars — turning casual chats into serious sales.
- Scale Customer Support: Ditch the endless email chains. Automated WhatsApp bots can handle essential customer support, freeing you to focus on what matters most.
- Build Stronger Relationships: With WhatsApp, you’re not just another account in a feed but a direct contact in your audience’s pocket. Automating content delivery, exclusive offers, or updates makes them feel like VIPs on a daily basis.
Manychat will also support this Shops functionality on Instagram and Messenger.
How to Start Using WhatsApp Messaging
If you’re interested in getting started with WhatsApp, check out this video covering the basics:
Setting up a WhatsApp Business account is similar to creating a standard user account. Once you finish the initial setup, an in-app tutorial explains the business tools.
From there, you can set up your profile and connect with your customers. Your Business profile is where you can include service hours, location, and a link to your website.
Once you get going, look at our tips for creating a WhatsApp sales funnel.
If your customers are on WhatsApp, you can use many features to help you communicate with them efficiently.
If you’re not on Manychat, now is the perfect time to get started. It’s free! Download now and see how we can help you convert on multiple platforms, not just WhatsApp.
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