How to use WhatsApp marketing to grow your brand

Brands use WhatsApp for:

• Promotional campaigns: Share exclusive deals, product launches, and seasonal offers.
• Automated updates: Send order confirmations, reminders, and tracking details.
• Customer engagement: Conduct surveys, collect feedback, and offer interactive content.
• Lead nurturing: Answer queries, provide support, and convert prospects into buyers.

But here’s the key: Customers expect value, not spam. Smart enterprises use WhatsApp to start conversations, not just to sell.

A quick example

Imagine you run a fashion brand. Instead of sending mass emails, you create a WhatsApp broadcast list and send customized messages to customers about your latest collection. You even add a short video showcasing the designs. Customers reply instantly, ask questions, and place orders—all within a single conversation.

That’s the magic of WhatsApp marketing. It’s direct, instant, and conversational—exactly what modern consumers want.

🔍 Did You Know? Over 175 million people message a business on WhatsApp every day, making it a goldmine for enterprises looking to boost sales.

Why WhatsApp marketing is crucial for businesses

Businesses today struggle to cut through the noise of crowded inboxes and expensive ads. Customers demand fast and personalized communication. This is where WhatsApp marketing shines:

2. Tailored interactions

Consumers crave customized experiences. A McKinsey study found that 71% of consumers expect personalization, and businesses that deliver see a 40% boost in revenue.

WhatsApp lets you tailor messages based on user behavior, send product recommendations, and provide real-time support—all through a channel they love.

1. Set up your WhatsApp Business API account

Before launching a campaign, you need a business account powered by the WhatsApp Business API. Unlike the free WhatsApp Business app, the API enables automation, bulk messaging, seamless integration, and compliance with WhatsApp policies.

Here’s how to get started:

C. Import your contacts

Easily upload and manage customer data:

• Bulk import: Upload a .xlsx file with customer details.
• Google Sheets sync: Auto-sync contacts from your existing CRM.
• User-Initiated messages: Automatically save contacts when they message your business.

D. Set up essential features

Use Gallabox’s intuitive dashboard to access advanced automation tools:

• Chatbots: Build and customize AI-powered bots to handle inquiries and nurture leads.
• Message sequences: Automate personalized follow-ups using Gallabox’s Drip Marketing feature.
• Broadcasts: Send bulk messages to segmented audiences with pre-approved templates.
• CRM integrations: Sync customer data with platforms like HubSpot, Shopify, Google Sheets, Razorpay, Zoho CRM, Zoom, and more.

E. Manage user access

Assign team roles to streamline operations:

• Owner: Full platform access.
• Admin: Manages chats, contacts, and configurations.
• Member: Handles customer interactions with limited access.

Once your WhatsApp Business API is configured, you’re ready to launch effective marketing campaigns. Let’s move to the next step!

2. Drive all traffic to WhatsApp

Now that your account is set up, it’s time to bring your audience to WhatsApp. The goal? Make it easy for customers to start a conversation. The more conversations you initiate, the higher your engagement and conversions.

Utilize these traffic sources:

• Website chat widgets: Add a WhatsApp chat button to your site to allow visitors to message you instantly.

• QR codes: Generate WhatsApp QR codes to let customers scan and connect with you. Display them on social media, packaging, or in-store posters.
  
  

• Click-to-WhatsApp ads: Run targeted Facebook and Instagram ads that direct potential customers straight to WhatsApp.

Capture marketing opt-ins

With Gallabox, you can collect WhatsApp marketing opt-ins at every touchpoint. This ensures compliance and respects user preferences. Customers who opt-in are more likely to engage with your messages, improving conversions.

Now, let’s fine-tune your messaging.

3. Set up high-converting message templates

Efficient communication is key to WhatsApp marketing success. Gallabox provides ready-to-use templates to reach customers without delays.

How to create effective templates:

• Use Gallabox’s AI-based WhatsApp template generator for quick, high-quality templates.
• Personalize messages with variables (customer name, order details, etc.) for relevance.

• Select from a library of pre-approved templates for reminders, promotions, and status updates.
• Maintain WhatsApp’s compliance guidelines to avoid restrictions on your messages.

A well-structured template not only saves time but also improves response rates and customer satisfaction.

4. Build and launch a high-impact WhatsApp marketing campaign

Now that you've laid the groundwork, it's time to launch your WhatsApp marketing campaign. With Gallabox, you get a complete toolkit to create and automate marketing workflows that drive engagement and conversions.

Let’s explore the essential features that will help you maximize results.

E. Build seamless customer journeys with WhatsApp flows

WhatsApp Flows enable businesses to build interactive experiences within WhatsApp using forms, surveys, and automated workflows.

With Gallabox’s Flow Builder, you can:

• Design custom forms using drag-and-drop elements.
• Integrate forms with chatbots, broadcasts, and drip campaigns.
• Capture and analyze responses for better customer insights.

F. Nurture leads with WhatsApp drip marketing campaigns

A WhatsApp drip campaign automates the delivery of pre-planned messages at specific intervals.

It helps you:

• Educate prospects about your products and services.
• Guide customers through the buying journey.
• Re-engage dormant leads and improve retention.

With Gallabox, you can easily set up a drip campaign, select your target audience, and launch automated messaging sequences.

Gallabox offers everything you need to build a high-performing WhatsApp marketing campaign. Whether running ads, automating chats, or sending broadcasts, each tool is designed to increase engagement and boost revenue.

Up next—marketing automation strategies that drive results!

1. Set clear goals and key performance indicators (KPIs)

Before you start, define your marketing objectives. Are you aiming to boost sales, generate leads, or increase customer engagement? Clear goals help you craft precise campaigns.

• Analyze your sales funnel to identify weak spots.
• Align your WhatsApp marketing with overall business goals.
• Track KPIs like message open rates, click-through rates, and conversions.

🔍 Did You Know? Marketers who actively set goals are 377% more successful than their peers.

2. Build a high-quality contact list

Targeting the right audience is crucial for success. Instead of blasting messages to everyone, segment your audience based on preferences, behavior, and demographics.

• Use WhatsApp opt-in forms to grow your contact list.
• Categorize contacts into segments like new leads, loyal customers, and inactive users.
• Personalize your messages for better engagement.

3. Use WhatsApp Business tools

WhatsApp Business API provides powerful features that enhance marketing automation and customer engagement.

• Business profile: Showcase your website, address, and contact details.
• Catalog: Display your products and services.
• Quick replies: Automate responses to FAQs.
• Labels: Organize customers based on their journey.

These tools streamline your interactions and create a seamless shopping experience, improving customer satisfaction and sales.

4. Craft compelling content and offers

Your WhatsApp marketing messages should be concise, engaging, and action-driven. Unlike emails, WhatsApp messages must be short and impactful.

• Use a mix of text, images, videos, and voice notes.
• Offer exclusive discounts or early access to sales.
• Create urgency with limited-time offers.

🧠 Fun Fact: The human brain can process images 60,000 times faster than text, and 90% of the information we absorb is visual. It's no surprise that images and videos are so effective in improving clarity and aiding decision-making!

5. Automate engagement with chatbots

Timely responses are crucial for engagement. A meta-analysis found that two-thirds of buyers who messaged brands got no response, damaging trust.

Here’s what customers expect when reaching out to brands:

• Automating replies using chatbots ensures no customer is left waiting.
• Use WhatsApp Business API to set up instant replies.
• Automate FAQs, order updates, and appointment bookings.
• Maintain a human touch—set escalation paths for complex queries.
• Automate follow-ups to boost retention and re-engagement.

6. Run interactive campaigns

Interactive campaigns create two-way conversations rather than one-way promotions. Use WhatsApp to engage customers dynamically.

• Conduct polls and surveys to understand customer preferences.      
• Host giveaways to boost brand awareness.
• Encourage user-generated content for better engagement.
• Make your campaigns fun and rewarding to maximize participation.

7. Monitor performance and optimize

A data-driven approach ensures continuous improvements and better results. Analyze what works and refine your strategy accordingly.

• Track open rates, response times, and conversions.
• A/B test different message formats and CTAs.
• Adjust strategies based on customer feedback and engagement trends.
• Use analytics to tweak campaigns for better ROI.

🤔 Why Care? Analytics-powered campaigns have achieved conversion rates over 50% higher than non-data-driven efforts.

1. Message delivery rate

Your campaign’s reach starts with successful message delivery. This metric shows how many of your messages reached recipients.

A low delivery rate suggests issues like outdated contact lists or carrier restrictions. Regularly clean your database and comply with WhatsApp Business policies to ensure optimal message delivery.

2. Read rate

A high read rate means your audience finds your messages relevant. If this metric is low, consider refining your WhatsApp marketing strategy. Adjust send times, personalize content, and craft compelling message previews to boost engagement.

3. Click-through rate (CTR)

CTR measures how many recipients click on the links in your messages. It’s a direct indicator of content relevance. A low CTR suggests weak CTAs. Strengthen your message by using action-driven language, clear benefits, and well-placed buttons.

4. Conversion rate

This metric tracks the number of users who take a desired action, like making a purchase or signing up. High conversion rates indicate effective messaging. Optimizing landing pages and ensuring seamless user journeys can further improve this number.

5. Customer response time

Engagement isn’t just about outbound messages. How quickly your business responds to inquiries impacts customer experience. Slow replies can lead to lost sales. Using automation, chatbots, or quick replies enhances response times and ensures better lead retention.

By analyzing these metrics, you can fine-tune your WhatsApp marketing efforts and drive tangible outcomes. Keep testing, refining, and optimizing to stay ahead!

1. Provide value with every message

Your customers receive countless messages daily. If yours doesn’t add value, it’ll be ignored.

2. Create in-app catalogs for effortless shopping

Turn WhatsApp into a mini eCommerce store with built-in catalogs.

• List products with descriptions, images, and prices.
• Enable easy browsing and instant purchases via WhatsApp Payments.
• Reduce friction in the buying process with a smooth checkout experience.

🤷‍️ Why does it matter? Over 76% of online shoppers say convenience is their top priority when making a purchase.

3. Use carousel messages for better storytelling

WhatsApp’s Carousel Messages allow you to send up to 10 scrollable cards in one message, increasing interaction.

• Highlight multiple products or features in a single message.
• Use this format for product launches, promotions, or abandoned cart reminders.
• Use call-to-action buttons to direct users to purchase pages.

4. Utilize FOMO to drive engagement

Nothing drives action like a ticking clock! Consumers make quicker purchasing decisions when they see time-sensitive offers.

• Create a sense of urgency with flash sales or early-bird discounts.
• Use phrases like "Only 3 spots left!" or "Deal expires in 2 hours!" to trigger FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and boost conversions.

Use this strategy to turn passive readers into active buyers.

5. Create exclusive WhatsApp communities

Engaged communities boost brand loyalty. Build stronger relationships by creating a sense of exclusivity.

• Launch VIP customer groups for early access to products or events.
• Provide behind-the-scenes content and insider updates.
• Encourage peer discussions to create a community-driven brand experience.

6. Time your messages for maximum impact

The right timing boosts open rates and engagement.

• Schedule messages based on customer behavior and time zones.
• A/B test different send times to find optimal engagement windows.
• Avoid early morning or late-night messages to prevent opt-outs.

When done right, WhatsApp marketing can turn conversations into revenue. Apply these best practices to deliver an experience that keeps customers coming back.

Also Read: How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages? - A Step by Step Guide

1. Using WhatsApp for hard selling

If every message screams "Buy now!”, your audience will tune out. Customers don’t want a sales pitch in each communication. Overly promotional content leads to disengagement.

• Focus on relationship-building rather than aggressive selling.
• Use WhatsApp to educate, engage, and provide value before making an offer. For example, a fitness brand can send workout hacks along with its supplement offers.
• Balance promotional content with interactive and informative messaging.

2. Ignoring WhatsApp’s messaging rules

WhatsApp has strict anti-spam policies. If you send unsolicited promotions or fail to get user opt-ins, your number might get blocked. A high block rate can reduce your message delivery rate—hurting your campaigns.

• Always obtain explicit opt-ins before adding contacts to your list.
• Provide an easy opt-out option to respect user preferences.
• Follow WhatsApp Business policy to avoid account suspension.
• Failure to comply can lead to business account bans and legal issues. 

3. Overlooking mobile optimization

Your audience is always on the move, checking messages in short bursts. If your messages are too long or poorly formatted, they’ll be ignored. Keep texts concise, use bullet points, and ensure CTAs are tappable with one click.

4. Sending too many messages

Nobody likes spam. Overloading customers with messages can lead to high unsubscribe rates. In a recent survey, 49% of respondents cite frequent messaging as the most annoying aspect of brand communication.

• Stick to 2-3 messages per week and time them strategically.
• Use data-driven insights to determine the best frequency for engagement.
• Focus on quality over quantity—send messages that add value, not noise.

5. Neglecting a strong brand voice

Your WhatsApp messages should sound like your brand, not a robotic text blast. Whether you’re fun and quirky or professional and informative, keep a consistent tone. A strong brand voice makes your messages instantly recognizable and more engaging.

1. DCH Motors accelerated car sales with WhatsApp Business Platform

DCH Motors in Hong Kong faced a challenge—customers browsed car listings outside business hours, causing lost leads. To solve this, they adopted WhatsApp Business Platform as their primary customer engagement hub. This enabled:

• Personalized car recommendations.
• Instant responses, reducing wait times.
• Improved marketing and sales collaboration.

2. Domino’s Pizza Indonesia boosted repeat sales through WhatsApp engagement

Domino’s Pizza Indonesia struggled with low repeat purchases due to competition from food delivery apps. Shifting from email to WhatsApp, they implemented a three-tier strategy:

• Sell: Sent daily WhatsApp messages promoting app orders
• Retain: Personalized messages every two weeks to increase repeat purchases
• Reward: QR-based loyalty program unlocking vouchers via WhatsApp

1. Pickyourtrail: 77% more leads through WhatsApp automation

Pickyourtrail, a DIY travel platform, faced challenges with limited reach, ineffective targeting, and API integration issues. Scaling campaigns while maintaining personalization was difficult.   

Gallabox’s AI-driven solution:

• Advanced broadcasts for wider reach.
• AI chatbots for 24/7 lead qualification.
• Automated customer journeys for better nurturing.
• Click-to-WhatsApp ads for higher conversions.
• Integrated data tracking for personalization.

2. Sattvic Stores: 10% RTO reduction within a month

Sattvic Stores, an organic health retailer, struggled with high Return to Origin (RTO) rates, costly marketing, and manual customer engagement.

1. What industries benefit the most from WhatsApp marketing?

WhatsApp marketing works for eCommerce, finance, real estate, healthcare, education, and hospitality—any business that values direct, personalized customer interactions.

2. Is WhatsApp marketing effective for small businesses?

Yes! WhatsApp marketing is cost-effective and helps small businesses reach customers directly. With automation, chatbots, and WhatsApp Shop, businesses can drive sales without expensive tools or ad spend.

3. How can I measure the success of my WhatsApp marketing campaigns?

Track key metrics like open rates, response rates, conversion rates, and customer engagement. Use analytics tools to assess performance and refine your strategy.