How to Send WhatsApp Promotional Messages Using the WhatsApp Business API

If you’re looking to connect with customers in a personal, direct, and engaging way, WhatsApp is where you need to be. Sending promotional messages through the WhatsApp Business API opens up a whole new world of possibilities for businesses. Whether you’re a startup, an established company, or a service provider, this powerful tool can help you create meaningful connections with your audience.

But wait—how do you actually send those WhatsApp promotional messages? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from setting up the WhatsApp Business API to crafting messages that drive results.

Let’s dive right in!

What’s the WhatsApp Business API and Why Should You Care?

Not Just Your Regular WhatsApp App!

WhatsApp isn’t just for chatting with friends anymore—it’s one of the most widely used communication channels in the world. With over 2 billion active users (yes, billion), it’s no surprise businesses are looking to tap into its potential.

The WhatsApp Business API is the tool that lets you send promotional messages to your customers while maintaining a high level of personalization and automation. Unlike the regular WhatsApp Business app, which is designed for small businesses with a single device, the API is built for medium and large businesses that need to handle large volumes of messages, integrate with CRMs, and automate customer service at scale.

Why Use It?

Well, here’s the deal: WhatsApp has become a preferred channel for customer communication, especially when it comes to things like promotions, special offers, and product updates. Customers are more likely to engage with messages that come through this app, with 98% of WhatsApp messages being read within minutes of being received!

By using the WhatsApp Business API, you’re not only connecting with your customers in a direct and personal way, but you’re also building trust. And trust is the secret sauce for conversions!

How to Set Up WhatsApp Business API: Your First Steps

Ready to dive into WhatsApp messaging? Here’s how you can get started. It’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Register for the WhatsApp Business API

To use the WhatsApp Business API, you’ll need to apply through a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP) or go directly to Facebook Business Manager to begin the process.

Here’s the path: Home > WhatsApp Manager > Create Account > Submit Request

Once approved, you’ll get access to the API and can link it with your business phone number.

Step 2: Set Up Your Business Profile

Now that you’re officially registered, it’s time to set up your WhatsApp Business profile. This includes:

• Business name
• Logo and description
• Business hours
• Website link

This is the part where you make your business look professional and trustworthy. Think of it like a virtual storefront.

Step 3: Choose Your Messaging Platform

You’ll need a platform to connect your WhatsApp API with. This could be a third-party CRM or messaging service like Twilio, WATI, or MessageBird.

These platforms allow you to integrate WhatsApp with your existing customer service tools, automate workflows, and track messages.

Permission First: Don’t Be a Spammer!

Before you start blasting messages out to anyone, get permission!

Why Permission Matters

If you send WhatsApp promotional messages to people who haven’t opted in, you could end up getting your account flagged or even banned. Not to mention, customers will quickly unfollow or unsubscribe. This is not the kind of engagement you want!

How to Get Permission

Here’s how you can get customers’ consent:

• Opt-in Forms: Add a checkbox on your website or app where users can opt in to receive WhatsApp updates.
• QR Codes: Display a WhatsApp QR code that customers can scan to join your broadcast list.
• Subscription Links: Provide links through emails or social media where users can sign up for WhatsApp updates.

Once they opt in, you’re good to go!

Crafting the Perfect Promotional Message

Okay, now comes the fun part—writing the message! But hold up—don’t just type out any old thing. You’ve got to make sure your message is:

• Concise – People don’t have time for long, wordy messages.
• Relevant – Tailor the content to your audience’s interests.
• Actionable – Give them a reason to act now!

Tips for Writing Effective Promotional WhatsApp Messages

• Keep it Short: Be brief. Aim for less than 160 characters. If your message is too long, consider breaking it into smaller parts.
• Emojis Are Your Friend: Use emojis to make your message feel casual, friendly, and engaging. Just don’t overdo it.
• Personalize It: Use the customer’s first name to create a more personal touch. You can even go a step further and use past purchase data to personalize promotions.
• Add a Clear CTA: What do you want your customers to do next? Whether it’s “Shop Now,” “Claim Your Discount,” or “Sign Up for the Event,” make your CTA simple and direct.

Example Message:

“Hey [Customer’s Name]! We’ve got a special offer just for you! Get 20% off your next purchase. Click below to shop now! [Link]”

When to Send Your Promotional Messages

Timing is everything when it comes to WhatsApp messages. If you send a promotional message at the wrong time, chances are it will get ignored or even worse, unsubscribed from.

Best Times to Send Messages

• Weekdays: Monday to Friday, between 9 AM to 6 PM (this is when people are most likely to be checking their phones for work or personal updates).
• Avoid Weekends: If your business doesn’t deal with time-sensitive promotions, try to avoid weekends as people tend to take a break from work communications.

Tip: Experiment with A/B testing to figure out what works best for your audience.

Types of Promotional Messages You Can Send

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s take a look at the different types of promotional messages you can send using WhatsApp.

1. Discounts & Offers

• The classic! Everyone loves a good deal. Send messages about limited-time offers, flash sales, or seasonal promotions.

2. Product Updates

• Got a new product or service launching? Send out a WhatsApp message to inform your customers and drive immediate interest.

3. Event Invitations

• Whether it’s a webinar, live event, or product launch, use WhatsApp to send out personalized invites to your subscribers.

4. Exclusive Content

• Share special offers or VIP-only content with your WhatsApp subscribers. Make them feel like they’re part of an exclusive group!

Understanding WhatsApp Message Limits

Important! WhatsApp places limits on how many messages you can send to prevent spammy behavior.

• Message Templates: WhatsApp uses approved message templates for notifications and promotions. You must submit these templates for review.
• Free Tier vs. Paid Tier: WhatsApp offers a free tier with limited messaging, but businesses that want to send large volumes of messages often opt for paid tiers.

Tip: Be strategic in your message sending. Don’t overload your audience with too many promotions, as that can lead to unsubscribes.

Measuring the Success of Your WhatsApp Campaigns

So, how do you know if your messages are hitting the mark?

Key Metrics to Track

• Delivery Rate: Did your message reach your recipients?
• Open Rate: How many recipients actually opened your message?
• Click-Through Rate (CTR): Did they click the link you provided?
• Unsubscribes: How many opted out after receiving your message?

Tracking these metrics helps you optimize your future campaigns and ensure you’re giving your audience exactly what they want.

Engagement Tips: How to Keep Your Audience Interested

Once you’ve got your WhatsApp promotional messages up and running, it’s time to think about ongoing engagement.

Here are some ideas to keep your customers engaged and coming back for more:

• Run Polls or Surveys: Use WhatsApp to ask your audience about their preferences, what products they want to see next, or how satisfied they are with your service.
• Exclusive Rewards Program: Reward your most loyal customers with exclusive promotions, sneak peeks, or early access to sales via WhatsApp.
• Customer Support on WhatsApp: Offer a more personalized experience by answering customer queries directly via WhatsApp. People love quick responses, and offering great service here can drive more sales.

FAQs: Your WhatsApp Business API Questions Answered!

Q1: Can I send messages to people who haven’t opted in?

Nope! WhatsApp’s terms are clear on this—only send messages to people who have explicitly opted in to receive communications.

Q2: How do I avoid being flagged as spam?

Make sure your messages are relevant and not excessive. Using WhatsApp-approved templates helps ensure your messages follow best practices.

Let’s Wrap It Up!

There you have it—everything you need to know to start sending WhatsApp promotional messages through the WhatsApp Business API.

It’s not just about sending messages—it’s about building lasting relationships with your customers. So, remember: keep it personal, keep it relevant, and keep the conversation going.

Ready to create campaigns that people actually look forward to? Let’s get to work and turn those promotional messages into powerful conversions!

Creative CTA:

• “Want to see your sales skyrocket? Let’s chat about how WhatsApp can help you connect with your audience like never before!”
• “Excited to send your first WhatsApp promotion? Start now and watch your customers engage like never before!”