WhatsApp is fast becoming a business tool for professionals and business owners. People share pdf files, photos, and various other documents. One of the best things about WhatsApp is the end-to-end encryption which means your information is safe and cannot be accessed by a 3rd party.
WhatsApp which is now owned by Facebook, recently released an update specifically for businesses like yours.
How to Get Started on WhatsApp:
WhatsApp is available for most phones which include windows, android, apple and, recent desktop versions for your personal computers.
To download the application, you need to visit your phone’s store and search for WhatsApp business.
Setting it up is quite easy after downloading, and all you need is to input your countries phone number. The application syncs all your contact list, and they appear in the application which enables you to share files, pictures and chat with contacts that have WhatsApp enabled.
Ways WhatsApp can help your business
A recent survey shows that people send over 100 million messages on WhatsApp every single day. With the average mobile phone usage increasing daily in Africa, there is a higher chance that your customer may be using WhatsApp as well.
Taking advantage of WhatsApp for your business
The business version of WhatsApp allows you to automate, arrange and, carry out various functions. The business version was made with small business owners in mind.
WhatsApp business comes with several business tools where you can update your profile with business information starting from websites, to the category of the business (example cakes, shoemaking etc.). Addresses are also included, emails can also be added and several other things like payment links.
Asides from the business tools, we have the product catalogue manager where you can showcase your products and services.
In this segment, if you have pictures and graphical representations with prices, then this would be the best place to have them uploaded. This allows potential customers to browse through your products and service and see if they like it or not. Also, it can act as a website cart with codes, referral links, amongst others.
Other WhatsApp messaging tools
Automated replies
It can be useful, especially when you are away or busy. These messages can be set by you and customized, so you don’t lose inquiries immediately they reach your chat. These automatic replies can also be scheduled for your taste.
Greeting messages
These are welcome messages to new customers. As the days go by if these customers have not responded, you can also send an auto message to them.
Quick replies
This is another messaging tool that helps you close inquiries and saves the text you frequently use, so you don’t have to type them again.
Labels
Labels are another part which I find interesting because a lot of small business or entrepreneurs can’t afford million-dollar customer relationship management application. Still, this tool allows you to label your customers from start to finish as they arrive.
- New customers: Those who show interest in your business
- New Order: Those customers who want a specific service or product and have requested for it.
- Pending payment: This is used to keep track of those you are expecting payment from.
- Paid: Customers who have paid for your product or services.
- Order completed: Product reaches the final consumer.
Short links
Short links and QR codes are becoming more popular. These QR codes are images that can be scanned using your camera phone – these images may contain data such as websites.
Broadcasting
Broadcasting too is another cool option where you can create a message and bulk send them to all your customers, informing them of new offers and promos about your business.
WhatsApp Groups
This can be used as your customer service channel, which can house about 256 contacts. Customers can have the opportunity to ask questions about your products and services as well as inform them.
Wrap-Up
The best thing about WhatsApp business is that it is free to use and you don’t require any technical knowledge or expertise to start using them. If you run a small business like a confectionary that takes orders daily; WhatsApp business would prove to useful, to also similar businesses.
WhatsApp business has come to stay and is a useful tool in your accessory, especially for small businesses who are just starting up and growing. It keeps your processes in sync and allows you to manage your sales and advertise your business on a platform with over 5 million users.
Lastly, if you ever decide to go premium by using Facebook ads or other online platforms. There is an opportunity for you to redirect customers to your business on WhatsApp.