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For a long time, WhatsApp has been a popular choice for companies looking to interact directly with their customers. However, until recently, firms were not permitted to send marketing or promotional messages to customers.
Previously, only ‘transactional’ messages, such as payment confirmations, shipment tracking, delivery updates, and other messages classified as ‘updates,’ were allowed. This restriction ensured that companies could provide personalized communication to their clients without spamming them with unnecessary messages. These messages were typically sent using WhatsApp automation tools to streamline the process.
In September 2021, however, WhatsApp introduced a new category of themes called “Marketing.” This development has significantly transformed how companies connect with their customers.
With this new messaging template, companies can now reach out to clients who have opted in for promotional and similar messages. Brands can use the WhatsApp Business Platform API to send product recommendations, discount codes, promotional offers, coupons, new product launch announcements, and more, thereby generating leads and boosting sales.
What are WhatsApp Promotional Messages?
WhatsApp promotional messages are any type of communication that businesses use to advertise their products or services to customers. These are non-transactional messages sent via the WhatsApp Business API for e-commerce purposes, including:
- Advertising new product launches
- Issuing back-in-stock alerts
- Promoting an app
- Recommending products
- Reminding clients about abandoned shopping carts
As more customers use WhatsApp to inquire about deals and discounts from their favorite brands, WhatsApp has started to authorize non-transactional messages. This change allows companies to engage with customers and enhance sales engagement.
Can You Send Promotional Messages on WhatsApp?
Yes, companies have been able to send promotional messages to their clients through the WhatsApp Business API since September 2021. However, it’s essential to note that WhatsApp must pre-approve these messages to ensure compliance with their business and commerce regulations.
Organizations can also send personalized promotional notifications in bulk by creating a customized broadcast list with relevant consumer groups. This approach allows for more effective and targeted communication with their customer base.
Benefits of Sending Promotional Messages on WhatsApp
- Direct Communication with Customers WhatsApp allows businesses to reach their customers directly, ensuring that promotional messages are delivered straight to the user’s phone, enhancing visibility and engagement.
- High Open Rates WhatsApp messages generally have higher open rates compared to emails. This means that promotional messages are more likely to be seen and read by customers.
- Personalized Marketing Companies can send tailored messages based on customer preferences and behavior, making the communication more relevant and increasing the likelihood of conversion.
- Rich Media Support WhatsApp supports various media formats like images, videos, and links, allowing businesses to create engaging and interactive promotional content.
- Immediate Delivery Messages sent via WhatsApp are delivered instantly, making it an excellent platform for time-sensitive promotions and flash sales.
- Customer Engagement WhatsApp enables two-way communication, allowing customers to respond to messages, ask questions, and engage with the brand, fostering a stronger customer relationship.
- Cost-Effective Marketing Compared to traditional marketing methods, sending promotional messages on WhatsApp can be more cost-effective, especially for small businesses.
- Global Reach WhatsApp has a vast user base worldwide, allowing businesses to reach a global audience and expand their market reach.
- Enhanced Customer Service By integrating promotional messages with customer service, businesses can provide seamless support and improve customer satisfaction.
- Increased Sales By sending timely and targeted promotional messages, businesses can boost sales, drive traffic to their website or store, and increase overall revenue.
Eligibility to Send Promotional Messages on WhatsApp
- WhatsApp Business API Service Registration:
- Businesses need to apply for and obtain approval for the WhatsApp Business API service to send non-transactional template messages to a significant number of consumers for marketing purposes.
- Active WhatsApp Business API Number:
- A company must have an active WhatsApp Business API number that has been approved to begin sending marketing messages to its clients.
- Customer Consent:
- Before sending promotional messages, businesses must ensure that customers have opted in to receive such communications. They must comply with WhatsApp’s opt-in policy rules, which require explicit consent from customers.
- Template Message Approval:
- Each promotional template message needs to be evaluated and approved by WhatsApp before it can be sent. WhatsApp does not permit daily newsletters or excessive notifications.
- Compliance with WhatsApp’s Rules:
- Businesses are required to consistently adhere to WhatsApp’s guidelines and policies regarding the use of their platform for business purposes.
Guidelines to Send Promotional Messages on WhatsApp
WhatsApp prioritizes user experience, making it essential for businesses to adhere to its rules when promoting products and services. Following these key recommendations can help you effectively send promotional messages on WhatsApp:
- Obtain Customer Consent:
- Always obtain explicit approval from customers before sending promotional messages to comply with WhatsApp’s commerce policy. This ensures that customers have a choice and do not feel overwhelmed by unsolicited messages.
- Maintain a Transactional-to-Promotional Message Ratio:
- It’s recommended to maintain a balanced ratio of 3:1 between transactional and promotional messages. This helps maintain a non-intrusive communication approach and keeps users engaged.
- Segment and Personalize Messaging:
- Segment your audience based on demographics, preferences, and past interactions. Personalize messages to deliver timely and relevant content that resonates with each segment’s interests.
- Respect User Preferences:
- Monitor user engagement and promptly honor opt-out requests. Avoid marketing to users who have unsubscribed or opted out to maintain a positive user experience.
- Timing and Frequency:
- Respect the frequency at which your target audience prefers to receive messages. Send communications at appropriate times to maximize engagement without overwhelming users.
- Provide Useful Information:
- Ensure that all promotional messages are informative and provide clear details about special offers, promotions, or loyalty rewards. Focus on delivering value to the user in every communication.
Techniques and Strategies for Crafting Effective Promotional WhatsApp Messages
Crafting impactful WhatsApp marketing messages requires strategic approaches that resonate with your audience and encourage desired actions. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create compelling promotional WhatsApp messages that connect with your audience and yield results:
- Engaging Content Creation:
- Establish a personal connection by adopting a conversational tone. Keep messages concise yet informative. Incorporate interactive elements such as photos, videos, PDFs, or clickable CTA buttons to enhance engagement and make your message visually appealing.
- Persuasive Language:
- Use clear and persuasive language that prompts recipients to take action. Focus on highlighting the benefits and value of your products or services without resorting to a traditional sales pitch. Aim to educate and inspire rather than overtly sell.
- Attention to Detail:
- Given the short attention spans of users, craft messages that immediately capture interest. Use an engaging tone and a prominent call to action (CTA) to encourage immediate responses and interactions.
- Conciseness and Clarity:
- Keep messages succinct and to the point. Clearly communicate the key features and benefits of your offerings to facilitate quick understanding and decision-making. Avoid jargon or overly complex language.
- Highlight Value Propositions:
- Clearly articulate the unique value propositions of your products or services. Focus on addressing customer needs and demonstrating how your offerings solve their problems or fulfill their desires. Build trust by being transparent about what customers can expect.
- Avoid Overpromising:
- Maintain authenticity in your messaging by avoiding exaggerated claims or promises. Present your offerings realistically and emphasize genuine benefits. This approach helps foster trust and credibility with your audience.
- Respect User Preferences:
- Adhere to WhatsApp’s guidelines and policies to avoid spamming. Obtain explicit consent from customers before sending promotional messages, and respect their preferences regarding frequency and content. Avoid tactics that could trigger spam detection algorithms.
- Continuous Improvement:
- Seek feedback and continuously refine your messaging strategy based on insights and performance metrics. Experiment with different message formats, timing strategies, and content variations to optimize engagement and conversion rates.
By implementing these techniques, businesses can effectively leverage WhatsApp as a powerful platform for promotional messaging. By focusing on engaging content, persuasive language, and respecting user preferences, businesses can enhance customer engagement, drive conversions, and build lasting relationships with their audience.
20 Creative WhatsApp Marketing Messages to Promote Your Business and Boost Sales
- New Product Launch Announcement: “Hey [Customer’s Name], We’re excited to announce the launch of our latest innovation, the TechFit Smartwatch! This state-of-the-art smartwatch helps you stay connected and track your fitness goals effortlessly. Order now and receive a special launch offer: use code TECHFIT10 for 10% off your first purchase! Hurry, as stocks are limited!”
Example:
“Hey John, We’re excited to announce the launch of our latest innovation, the TechFit Smartwatch! This state-of-the-art smartwatch helps you stay connected and track your fitness goals effortlessly. Order now and use code TECHFIT10 for 10% off your first purchase! Hurry, as stocks are limited!” - Flash Sale Promotion: “Hi [Customer’s Name], Don’t miss out on our exclusive 24-hour flash sale! Enjoy up to 50% off on selected items, including [Product A], [Product B], and more. Shop now and grab your favorites before they’re gone!”
Example:
“Hi Emily, Don’t miss out on our exclusive 24-hour flash sale! Enjoy up to 50% off on selected items, including our best-selling Fashion Collection and Tech Gadgets. Shop now and grab your favorites before they’re gone!” - Seasonal Discount Offer: “Hello [Customer’s Name], Celebrate the season with our summer extravaganza! Get ready for sunny days with 30% off on all beachwear and outdoor essentials. Dive into summer savings and shop now!”
Example:
“Hello Michael, Celebrate the season with our summer extravaganza! Get ready for sunny days with 30% off on all beachwear and outdoor essentials. Dive into summer savings and shop now!” - Limited Time Offer Reminder: “Hi [Customer’s Name], Just a friendly reminder: our special offer ends tomorrow! Don’t miss your chance to save 20% on your next order of [Product Category]. Shop now and enjoy this exclusive discount!”
Example:
“Hi Sarah, Just a friendly reminder: our special offer ends tomorrow! Don’t miss your chance to save 20% on your next order of Home Decor. Shop now and enjoy this exclusive discount!” - Customer Appreciation Message: “Dear [Customer’s Name], Thank you for being a valued customer! Enjoy a special treat on us: [discount/free gift] on your next purchase. We appreciate your support and look forward to serving you again!”
Example:
“Dear Alex, Thank you for being a valued customer! Enjoy a special treat on us: 15% off your next purchase. We appreciate your support and look forward to serving you again!” - Product Feature Highlight: “Hey [Customer’s Name], Discover the must-have product of the season: the Gourmet Chef Knife Set! Crafted from premium stainless steel, it offers precision cutting and durability. Elevate your culinary skills with this essential kitchen companion. Order now and enjoy free shipping on your purchase!”
Example:
“Hey Olivia, Discover the must-have product of the season: the Gourmet Chef Knife Set! Crafted from premium stainless steel, it offers precision cutting and durability. Elevate your culinary skills with this essential kitchen companion. Order now and enjoy free shipping on your purchase!” - Bundle Offer Promotion: “Hi [Customer’s Name], Double the delight with our exclusive bundle offer! Purchase the Home Spa Kit and Luxury Bathrobe together and save 25%. Treat yourself or someone special to the ultimate relaxation experience. Shop now while stocks last!”
Example:
“Hi James, Double the delight with our exclusive bundle offer! Purchase the Home Spa Kit and Luxury Bathrobe together and save 25%. Treat yourself or someone special to the ultimate relaxation experience. Shop now while stocks last!” - Refer-a-Friend Promotion: “Hello [Customer’s Name], Spread the word and earn rewards! Refer a friend to [Your Company Name] and you both get 20% off your next purchase. Share the love and start saving today!”
Example:
“Hello Emma, Spread the word and earn rewards! Refer a friend to [Your Company Name] and you both get 20% off your next purchase. Share the love and start saving today!” - Exclusive VIP Sale Access: “Hey [Customer’s Name], You’re invited to our VIP sale event! Enjoy early access to our new collection with 15% off on all products. Treat yourself to the latest trends before anyone else. Limited slots available—shop now!”
Example:
“Hey Lucas, You’re invited to our VIP sale event! Enjoy early access to our new collection with 15% off on all products. Treat yourself to the latest trends before anyone else. Limited slots available—shop now!” - Product Usage Tips: “Hi [Customer’s Name], Discover how to make the most of our Travel Backpack! Perfect for adventurers, it offers ample storage and durability. Watch our video tutorial and order yours today for your next adventure!”
Example:
“Hi Lily, Discover how to make the most of our Travel Backpack! Perfect for adventurers, it offers ample storage and durability. Watch our video tutorial and order yours today for your next adventure!” - Customer Testimonial Showcase: “Hello [Customer’s Name], Hear what our customers are saying about our Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats! With rave reviews for comfort and sustainability, it’s the perfect choice for your yoga practice. Order now and experience the difference!”
Example:
“Hello Max, Hear what our customers are saying about our Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats! With rave reviews for comfort and sustainability, it’s the perfect choice for your yoga practice. Order now and experience the difference!” - Limited Edition Product Announcement: “Hey [Customer’s Name], Introducing our exclusive Artisan Handcrafted Jewelry collection! Each piece is uniquely crafted for elegance and style. Order now and add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe.”
Example:
“Hey Ava, Introducing our exclusive Artisan Handcrafted Jewelry collection! Each piece is uniquely crafted for elegance and style. Order now and add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe.” - Seasonal Gift Guide: “Hi [Customer’s Name], Find the perfect gift this holiday season with our Gift Guide! From personalized gifts to festive decorations, we have something for everyone on your list. Shop now and spread holiday cheer!”
Example:
“Hi Noah, Find the perfect gift this holiday season with our Gift Guide! From personalized gifts to festive decorations, we have something for everyone on your list. Shop now and spread holiday cheer!” - Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peek: “Hey [Customer’s Name], Get an exclusive look behind the scenes of our upcoming Fashion Show! Follow us on Instagram for live updates and sneak peeks. Stay tuned for exciting reveals and special offers!”
Example:
“Hey Mia, Get an exclusive look behind the scenes of our upcoming Fashion Show! Follow us on Instagram for live updates and sneak peeks. Stay tuned for exciting reveals and special offers!” - Social Proof Highlight: “Hello [Customer’s Name], Join thousands of satisfied customers who love our Organic Skincare products! Discover why our natural ingredients and sustainable practices make a difference. Order now and experience the benefits!”
Example:
“Hello Oliver, Join thousands of satisfied customers who love our Organic Skincare products! Discover why our natural ingredients and sustainable practices make a difference. Order now and experience the benefits!” - Upcoming Event Invitation: “Hi [Customer’s Name], You’re invited to our exclusive Virtual Cooking Class! Join us this Saturday for a fun and interactive session with Chef [Name]. Limited spots available—RSVP now and receive a special ingredient kit!”
Example:
“Hi Sophia, You’re invited to our exclusive Virtual Cooking Class! Join us this Saturday for a fun and interactive session with Chef Sarah. Limited spots available—RSVP now and receive a special ingredient kit!” - Seasonal Tips and Advice: “Hey [Customer’s Name], Prepare your garden for spring with our expert gardening tips! From planting to pruning, we’ve got you covered. Watch our video tutorial and shop for our garden essentials today!”
Example:
“Hey Ethan, Prepare your garden for spring with our expert gardening tips! From planting to pruning, we’ve got you covered. Watch our video tutorial and shop for our garden essentials today!” - Interactive Poll or Quiz: “Hello [Customer’s Name], Which color would you choose for our new Fashion Collection? Vote now and get a chance to win a special discount on your next purchase. Your opinion matters!”
Example:
“Hello Lily, Which color would you choose for our new Fashion Collection? Vote now and get a chance to win a special discount on your next purchase. Your opinion matters!” - Charity or Community Initiative: “Hi [Customer’s Name], Join us in making a difference! For every purchase this month, we’ll donate a percentage to [Charity Name]. Together, we can create positive change. Shop now and support a cause!”
Example:
“Hi Leo, Join us in making a difference! For every purchase this month, we’ll donate a percentage to Save the Children. Together, we can create positive change. Shop now and support a cause!” - Customer Feedback Request: “Hey [Customer’s Name], We value your feedback! Share your experience with us and receive a special gift on your next order. Your insights help us improve our products and services. Click the link to leave your review!”
Example:
“Hey Isabella, We value your feedback! Share your experience with us and receive a special gift on your next order. Your insights help us improve our products and services. Click the link to leave your review!”
Boost Your Sales with WhatsApp
In conclusion, WhatsApp offers businesses a dynamic platform to enhance sales through personalized and direct communication with customers. By adhering to best practices such as audience segmentation, message tracking, and using approved templates, businesses can optimize their promotional efforts effectively.
Happilee, with its comprehensive WhatsApp API services, empowers businesses to streamline customer communication and elevate marketing strategies. Whether sending transactional updates or engaging customers with promotional messages, Happilee ensures compliance with WhatsApp’s guidelines, enhancing message delivery and customer satisfaction.
WhatsApp’s secure and interactive features make it an invaluable tool for modern marketing. By leveraging WhatsApp alongside Happilee’s solutions, businesses can foster meaningful customer relationships, drive conversions, and achieve sustained growth in today’s competitive landscape.
To increase your company’s efficiency, Happilee for free– it is one of the best WhatsApp Marketing tools that helps your business level up.
