How to use WhatsApp Business API for Businesses?
WhatsApp Business API is your ticket to reaching over 2 billion users where they already hang out. It’s like having a direct line to your customers’ pockets, for everything from quick updates to full-on customer support.
Let’s check out how to use WhatsApp Business API for businesses. And what are its benefits?
How to Use WhatsApp Business API for Business?
Here are the key steps to set up Whatsapp API for your business:
Step 1: Create Your Facebook Business Manager Account
It is so simple to create a Facebook business manager account. Fill out the form with your details, then check your email for further instructions from Facebook’s Support Team. Follow their guidance to verify your account.
Related: AN Whatsapp Free Download
Step 2: Verify Your Business in Facebook Business Manager
You need to verify your business to make sure that it is legitimate. It protects users from misinformation and fraud. Here is how to complete the process:
After submission, Facebook will review your business details. Once your account is verified, it will be checked to confirm it follows WhatsApp’s rules and policies. You can see your verification status in the Settings section of Business Manager.
After verification, add a display name and phone number to your WhatsApp Business profile to make it ready for an audience. For the safe side you should register your company in SECP, it will help you get the Whatsapp Business API.
Step 3: Get Access to the WhatsApp Developer API
You will need an authentication token to use the WhatsApp Business API. This token helps you to register, install, and configure API settings using one of three methods:
- Web Business Tool Panel:
Use a graphical interface to manage registration, messaging, and settings. Features include callback configurations, Webhooks, and account profile management. - Docker Compose:
Deploy and manage API settings directly using Docker containers. - Amazon Web Services (AWS):
For a more advanced or unique solution, AWS is ideal for WhatsApp API integration.
Step 4: Understand WhatsApp API Pricing and Limits
Before you start using the WhatsApp Business API, check out its pricing and messaging limits.
- You can respond to customer inquiries for free within 24 hours. After this window, a fixed fee applies per message.
- Pricing is based on the recipient’s country code, not the sender’s.
- Fees vary by region. For instance:
To view invoices, navigate to Business Manager → Settings → Payments.
- Messaging Limits:
Messaging limits depend on the number of unique customers your business can reach within 24 hours. Businesses start at Tier 1 (1K unique users) and can scale up to Tier 3 (100K users) as they meet quality and activity criteria.
You can monitor your quality rating in WhatsApp Manager’s Insights tab. Work hard for a high rating (green) by keeping messages personalized and following WhatsApp’s Business Policy.
Step 5: Utilize Advanced WhatsApp API Features
Once your API is operational, you can explore advanced functionalities:
- Webhooks:
Automate responses to incoming messages, including text, media, or status updates.
- Backup and Restore:
Use the API’s backup and restore endpoints to migrate data or ensure smooth recovery.
- Message Templates:
Save time by creating reusable templates for customer notifications. For example:
- Welcome! We’re excited to serve you on WhatsApp.
4. Media Management:
Upload, retrieve, or delete media using the API. Example for uploading media via curl:
bash
5. Monitoring:
Set up dashboards with tools like Prometheus and Grafana to track API performance and receive notifications for any issues.
With these steps completed, your business is fully equipped to leverage WhatsApp’s API for seamless customer engagement.
What is WhatsApp Business API?
Medium and large-scale businesses can engage with customers using the WhatsApp Business API.
This API is more advanced than the basic WhatsApp Business App, as it provides facilities for automated messages, connection with internal tools, and capabilities to manage large numbers of customer interactions.
Related: NA Whatsapp Latest Version Download
WhatsApp Business API vs WhatsApp Business App
Feature | WhatsApp Business App | WhatsApp Business API |
Cost | Free to use | Paid service |
Target Audience | Small companies | Medium to large enterprises |
Device Access | Limited to one device | Supports multiple users |
Automation Features | Basic automation | Advanced automation and integration |
Why Would Businesses Consider WhatsApp Business API?
For businesses looking to scale operations or even explore businesses for sale to expand their reach, using tools like WhatsApp Business API can be a lifesaver.
- Meet customers where they already are: WhatsApp is one of the most used instant messaging apps, offering businesses a chance to engage customers on a platform where they spend significant time.
- Scale Customer Support Automation: WhatsApp Business API facilitates automated responses, handles large query volumes, and provides efficient support without requiring constant human intervention.
- Send important updates and notifications: Businesses can send critical updates, order confirmations, or reminders directly to customers, ensuring timely delivery with high open rates.
- Create personalized shopping experiences: Businesses can send tailored recommendations and messages based on customer preferences, enhancing engagement and increasing conversion rates.
- Reduce customer service costs: Automation of tasks such as answering FAQs and tracking orders helps reduce the need for a big customer service team, saving costs.
- Improve response times significantly: WhatsApp’s real-time messaging reduces response times, improving customer satisfaction and trust through quick, efficient communication.
Key Features of WhatsApp Business API
The API offers a range of powerful features.
- Message Templates: Pre-approved message formats for business communications
- Interactive Messages: Buttons, list messages, and product catalogs
- Automated Responses: Set up chatbots and automated workflows
- Multi-agent Support: Multiple team members can handle conversation
- CRM Integration: Integration with current business systems.
- Detailed Analytics: Track message delivery, response rates, and engagement
Is WhatsApp Business API Right for Your Business?
Use WhatsApp Business API if your business has:
- Large volumes: API handles mass messaging and high customer chat volumes efficiently.
- Automation needs: Enables chatbots, auto-replies, and scheduled notifications.
- System integration: Connects with your CRM, help desk, and other business tools.
- 24/7 support: Maintains constant availability through automation and message routing.
- Team collaboration: Supports multiple agents handling conversations simultaneously.
WhatsApp Business API Solution Providers (BSPs)
Working with a BSP makes implementation easier. They handle:
- Technical setup and integration
- Compliance requirements
- Message template approval
- Ongoing support and maintenance
Popular BSPs include:
- Twilio
- MessageBird
- Gupshup
- 360dialog
Common Challenges and Solutions of Using WhatsApp Business API
- Template Message Approval
- Follow guidelines strictly
- Use clear, professional language
- Avoid promotional content in certain categories
- Message Quality Score
- Maintain high response rates
- Keep blocking rates low
- Respond within expected timeframes
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
This is how to use Whatsapp Business API for business. Use these APIs wisely and follow the WhatsApp policy to avoid any mishaps.