What is Business WhatsApp API? All you need to know
With over 1.5 billion active users, WhatsApp has become the most popular messaging app in the world. This guide will provide an overview of the new WhatsApp Business app and API and a tutorial on using the Business API. We’ll also compare the features of the WhatsApp Business app with other popular messaging apps for businesses. Finally, we’ll discuss best practices for using the WhatsApp Business app.
What is Whatsapp Business
WhatsApp Business is a small-business messaging software. The app lets companies manage their WhatsApp messages from a single app, making it easier to communicate with customers. The app also offers features such as automated messages, business profiles, and analytics. However, the app has its limitations, and businesses should be aware of these before using it.
What is Whatsapp Business API
WhatsApp has released the higher-tier “WhatsApp Official Account” for businesses that require more from the app. However, with the help of an official account, you will get communication and client management systems. Besides this, it also assists different businesses in getting the most customers and improving conversion rates.
Next, you must remember that you cannot use the Business API or WhatsApp official account by downloading the software.
Unlike WhatsApp Business, WhatsApp Official Accounts cannot be initiated simply by downloading software; you must be invited and approved by WhatsApp. This ensures quality control of businesses using the API and avoids misuse.
To use the Business API, your business must first be registered with WhatsApp. After this, you will need to go through an approval process, where WhatsApp will assess whether your business is eligible to use the API.
If your business is approved, you can use the Business API to send messages to customers, create customer profiles, and track analytics.
Functions and usage of WhatsApp business API
You will find too many functions and usage of WhatsApp business API. All are given below, so read carefully:
Business profile
It is a new feature of WhatsApp business through which you can create your business profile. This will include your company’s name, website URL, and email address. Customers can easily message you through this profile. With the help of this, you can quickly boost the confidence of your client.
Multiple devices
Consider a scenario in which your firm must handle many customer service inquiries. In this situation, multiple users can quickly log in to a single account to take all the messages. This feature also allows you to check your team member’s previous conversations to get an idea about the customer’s problem quickly.
Autoreply function
Businesses can use autoreply to send automated responses to customers. This is a valuable feature for companies that receive many messages or queries. However, it’s important to note that autoreply can only be used for customer support and not for marketing or promotional purposes. If someone messages you on WhatsApp and you’re unavailable to reply, they’ll receive an automated response.
WhatsApp ChatBot
A WhatsApp Chatbot is a computer program that can simulate a human conversation on WhatsApp. Chatbots are used to automate customer support or marketing on WhatsApp. With the help of this app, businesses can communicate with their customers more efficiently.
How to use Whatsapp Business API
Now that you know what the WhatsApp Business app is and what it offers let’s take a look at how to use the WhatsApp Business API. The WhatsApp Business API allows businesses to send messages to customers through the WhatsApp application. Companies need to have a WhatsApp Business account and be registered with Twilio to use the WhatsApp Business API.
Once you have registered for a Twilio account and set up your WhatsApp Business account, you must create a Twilio sandbox number. This is a particular type of Twilio number that is used for testing purposes. After you have made your sandbox number, you will need to configure it with your WhatsApp Business account. The configuration process is simple and only takes a few minutes.
Once your sandbox number is configured, you can send customer messages through the WhatsApp Business API. The WhatsApp Business API allows you to send customers text messages, images, videos, and files. You can also use the WhatsApp Business API to create customer service chatbots.
To learn more about using the WhatsApp Business API, Twilio offers several resources, including a WhatsApp Business API Quickstart guide and a WhatsApp Business API documentation.
Best practices for using Whatsapp Business
Now that you have a fair idea of how Whatsapp Business works, here are some best practices to follow:
- Use an automated greeting message
Customers who contact you on WhatsApp should immediately receive a greeting message. This automated message can be set up in the WhatsApp Business app under the ‘Greeting Message’ settings.
- Use WhatsApp for customer support:
WhatsApp can be used for customer support in several ways. You can use it to answer frequently asked questions, resolve customer complaints, or even provide live chat support.
- Use WhatsApp for appointment reminders:
If you have a business that requires appointments, you can use WhatsApp to send reminders to your customers. This is a great way to reduce no-shows and increase customer satisfaction.
- Use WhatsApp for marketing:
You can use WhatsApp to market your business and send promotional messages to your customers. This could include special offers, coupons, or even announcements about new products or services.
Conclusion
WhatsApp Business is a powerful messaging tool for businesses of all sizes. With over 1.5 billion active users, WhatsApp has become the most popular messaging app in the world. The WhatsApp Business app and API offer several features that make it an essential tool for businesses. So, if you’re looking for a messaging app for your business, check out WhatsApp Business. With its powerful features and easy-to-use.
