WhatsApp is an internationally-available messaging platform owned by Meta Platforms, previously Facebook, Inc. With more than two billion users across 150 countries, WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app worldwide. But did you know that WhatsApp allows brands to engage consumers with full-funnel conversations? That’s right! Brands can use WhatsApp Business to deepen customer loyalty, create a personalized shopping experience, and provide valuable information to buyers. If you’re a newcomer to the social messaging app arena, you might not know how to use WhatsApp Business, or why you should be using it. Luckily, we’ve got the inside scope to get you started. Check out our quick crash course in WhatsApp Business to start taking advantage of this powerful platform right away.  

What is WhatsApp Business (WAB)?

For starters, there is a difference between WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business. While the traditional WhatsApp app is used for personal conversations between family and friends and allows end-users to engage with brand accounts, WhatsApp Business enables businesses to interact directly with consumers. With a WhatsApp Business account, companies can:  

  • Create a business profile that includes important information, such as a business’s address, website, and email

 

  • Set up a brand badge to identify an official business chat

 

  • Effortlessly engage and respond to customers with end-to-end encrypted messages

 

 

  • Let customers pay for products within the chat

  As you can see, WhatsApp Business allows brands to easily tap into new worldwide markets and expand their reach.  

WhatsApp Business tools to explore

WhatsApp Business gives brands access to a lot of nifty tools, including:  

  • Catalog: This allows you to showcase your products and services

 

  • Labels: Use this tool to sort your customer conversations into helpful categories, such as “new customers” or “orders pending”

 

  • Messaging: You can take advantage of WhatsApp’s messaging templates to create engaging conversations in advance. You can also set up automated messages, such as greetings, to effortlessly interact with consumers 24/7.

  To explore these valuable tools, simply go to your chat screen, tap “settings” on iPhone or “more options” on Android, and then hit “business tools.”   

WhatsApp Business vs. WhatsApp API

One important thing to mention is the difference between WhatsApp Business and WhatsApp API. Unlike WhatsApp Business which is intended for small to medium enterprises (SMEs), the API is specifically designed for large-scale organizations. Uber and KLM are among the leading brands using WhatsApp’s API. If you’re looking to onboard the WhatsApp API, you’ll need to contact an omnichannel messaging provider. Luckily that’s exactly what Mitto does and we’re happy to help!  

Benefits of using WhatsApp Business

WhatsApp Business opens the door to endless opportunities for brands of all sizes, including:  

Reaching new markets: Brands looking to expand their global footprint can target exciting new markets with WhatsApp Business. For instance, WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app in Latin America. And with Latin American eCommerce sales predicted to rise to $160 billion by 2025, this is a hot market that all businesses should be paying attention to.  

High open rates: Almost 80% of WhatsApp messages are read in the first five minutes. Additionally, WhatsApp messages also have 99% open rates and 45 to 60% click rates. Try to get those numbers with email!  

Personalization: Today’s consumers crave personalized conversations with brands. Direct messaging via WhatsApp Business allows brands to tailor messages, promos, and even customer service. Companies can easily send order updates and provide support in a secure, one-to-one chat.  

Builds trust: All chats that take place via WhatsApp Business feature end-to-end encryption. This not only protects your customers’ sensitive information but also builds trust. In fact, eight out of 10 Americans are more likely to buy from a brand they trust.    

Getting started with WhatsApp Business

  Now that you understand what all the hype is about, how can you set up your own WhatsApp Business account? If you’re an enterprise company that needs a large-scale WhatsApp solution, or you want to integrate WhatsApp into an omnichannel communications tool, reach out to us and we can help. If you’re an SME and want to try out WhatsApp Business on your own, you can get started right now!   To set up a WhatsApp Business account, simply:  

 

  • Verify your business phone number

 

  • Set up your business name and profile by going to Explore > Business profile

 

  • Begin engaging directly with your customers!

  Now is the time to enhance your customer experience strategy by offering expanded communication channels. Using Mitto Conversations, you can easily manage all of your customer conversations in one easy-to-use, no-code platform. Channel offerings include SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and many more.   Contact us today to learn how Mitto can help you take your omnichannel communications strategy to the next level.