WhatsApp channels allow you to broadcast messages to large audiences through the WhatsApp messaging app. They are a great way to share information, promote your business, or connect with your community. If you want to get started using WhatsApp channels, here is what you need to know.
What are WhatsApp channels?
WhatsApp channels, also known as WhatsApp broadcast lists, allow you to send messages to many people at once through WhatsApp. While regular WhatsApp only allows you to message one person or group at a time, channels let you broadcast to a large list of contacts with a single message.
WhatsApp channels work by creating a list of contacts and messaging them all simultaneously. The recipients will each receive the message individually, so they won’t know it was sent to multiple people. You can add up to 256 contacts to a broadcast list.
How do WhatsApp channels work?
WhatsApp channels use the WhatsApp Business API to send broadcasts. This allows third-party apps to integrate with WhatsApp to manage messages and contacts. When you configure a channel through one of these apps, it connects to your WhatsApp account in the background.
The app then allows you to create broadcast lists and schedule messages to those lists. When it’s time to send, the app uses the WhatsApp Business API to deliver the messages to all recipients simultaneously from your WhatsApp number.
Setting up a WhatsApp channel requires finding and configuring a compatible broadcasting app. Most apps offer paid subscription plans to access WhatsApp channel features. Many also provide analytics to see who opened your messages or clicked any links.
Requirements to use WhatsApp channels
To set up and use a WhatsApp channel, you’ll need:
- An active WhatsApp account
- A smartphone with WhatsApp installed
- A business profile on WhatsApp
- Access to the WhatsApp Business API
- A third-party broadcasting app
Your WhatsApp account must be registered to a business profile in order to access WhatsApp channels. Setting up a business profile is free through WhatsApp.
You’ll also need to find a third-party app that can integrate with your business profile through the WhatsApp Business API. The API allows these apps to automatically send messages at scale.
Step 1: Set up a WhatsApp business profile
The first step is to configure a WhatsApp business profile. Here is how to set one up:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone
- Go to Settings > Business Settings
- Tap “Register As A Business” and follow the on-screen steps
- Verify your business phone number through SMS or call
- Fill out your business information and description
- Agree to the Terms of Service
It should only take a few minutes to create your business profile. Make sure to use an active phone number you can access so you can receive verification codes.
Step 2: Find a WhatsApp channel provider
Once your business profile is ready, you need to find a platform that offers WhatsApp channel integration. Here are some of the top providers:
| Provider | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Chatlayer | Free tier available, allows 100 contacts |
| Slackline | 14-day free trial, message scheduling |
| BulkGate | 500 free messages monthly, unlimited contacts |
| WhatsBroadcaster | Paid plans only, starts at $16/month |
| Fast2SMS | Low pricing, analytics dashboard |
Look for a platform that integrates directly with the WhatsApp Business API. Most providers offer paid subscription plans to access WhatsApp features. Make sure to check their contact allowances and messaging rates.
Step 3: Connect your WhatsApp account
Once you choose a provider, you’ll need to connect your WhatsApp business profile to their platform. The steps vary, but usually include:
- Creating an account with the provider
- Logging into your account and going to settings
- Entering your WhatsApp business number
- Verifying the number through SMS code or call
- Confirming the connection
The provider will use your verification code to authenticate your account with the WhatsApp Business API. This allows them to integrate behind the scenes and prepare your channel.
Step 4: Create your broadcast list
With your account connected, you can start adding contacts to your broadcast list. Most providers allow multiple lists segmented by language, location, interests, or other factors.
Start by uploading your contact list spreadsheet or manually entering numbers. You may need to clean up the data to ensure it matches the WhatsApp format. Most apps provide tools to help with this.
Add relevant details like names, opt-in status, and custom fields to each contact. This helps segment and organize your list for more targeted broadcasting.
Step 5: Schedule and send your messages
Once your broadcast list is set up, it’s time to start sending messages. Most providers give options to:
- Compose messages within the app
- Upload pre-designed messages
- Schedule messages to send at specific dates/times
- Set up automated messaging workflows
Make sure your messages are personalized when possible and follow WhatsApp community guidelines. Your account could get banned for spammy behavior.
When scheduled, your provider will use the WhatsApp Business API to send your message to each recipient at scale. Track performance and engagement in your app dashboard.
Best practices for WhatsApp channels
Here are some top tips for running your WhatsApp channel successfully:
- Only message users who have opted in – avoid spamming unknown contacts
- Personalize messages with names, details, and relevant content
- Offer an opt-out option in each message
- Adhere to WhatsApp guidelines for content
- Use WhatsApp templates and product catalogs
- Send at optimal times when users are active
- Test your messages before sending to all users
WhatsApp channel rules and restrictions
There are some key rules and limits to understand when using WhatsApp channels including:
- Requires a Business Profile and Business API access
- Broadcast lists limited to 256 users
- Users must opt-in to receive messages
- Limits on how frequently you can message users
- No automatic responses; must respond personally
- No altering WhatsApp interface or features
- No spam, illegal, or offensive content
Make sure to follow WhatsApp guidelines for acceptable use when sending large volumes of messages. Accounts violating the rules may be banned.
WhatsApp channel use cases
WhatsApp channels are useful across many industries and use cases, including:
- Sending news/updates to customers
- Sharing deals, promotions, and offers
- Collecting leads and registrations
- Delivering order status notifications
- Distributing product catalogs or menus
- Gathering feedback from users
- Connecting with your local community
The personal nature of WhatsApp makes it great for strengthening customer relationships and engagement. Channels allow you to scale these messages efficiently.
Advantages of WhatsApp channels
WhatsApp channels provide many benefits, such as:
- High open and response rates – Users actively check WhatsApp frequently
- Easy opt-in – Users already have the app installed
- Lower cost – More affordable than SMS or email marketing
- Personalization – Options to customize messages
- Automation – Schedule and automate broadcasts
- Segmentation – Send targeted messages to different lists
- Engagement – Direct communication channel with customers
With over 2 billion active users, WhatsApp is a huge potential channel to reach your audience. Channels make it easy to tap into user attention on a platform they love.
Conclusion
Setting up WhatsApp channels requires creating a business profile, finding a provider, connecting your account, building broadcast lists, and scheduling messages. Follow best practices like personalization and segmentation for the best results.
Used properly, WhatsApp channels provide an effective way to engage your customers and prospects at scale. The direct communication and automation make it possible to drive real business value.