Running a successful online store isn’t just about selling products—it’s about delivering a seamless shopping experience that keeps customers coming back.
With over 4 million live stores (Statista) powered by WooCommerce as of September 2024, the competition is fiercer than ever.
About 72% of customers (Adobe Trust Report) say they have greater faith in brands when they receive prompt, relevant content. This demonstrates how providing individualized, meaningful experiences can increase consumer loyalty and encourage repeat business.
This is where WooCommerce WhatsApp order notifications come in. By utilizing this, businesses can ensure effective customer engagement.
This guide breaks down WooCommerce WhatsApp order notifications, their advantages, and how to set them up. Read on!
What is WooCommerce WhatsApp order notification?
WooCommerce WhatsApp order notification is an effective feature designed to enhance communication between online store owners and their customers.
It makes shopping more efficient and engaging by enabling real-time order updates through WhatsApp, which includes:
- Order confirmation
- Order processing
- Order shipping
- Order delivery
Here are some of its top attributes:
- Multi-language support: Certain plugins include multi-language support to accommodate a wide range of users. This ensures customers receive notifications in the language of their choice.
- Customized templates: Notifications can be personalized by business owners to represent their brand. This can improve customers' buying experiences and build better relationships.
- Compatibility: WhatsApp order notifications for WooCommerce usually work well with various plugins and themes, which makes them flexible to different store configurations.
Why WhatsApp order notifications matter for WooCommerce stores
Integrating WhatsApp order notifications into your WooCommerce store can transform the way you engage with your customers.
Here is a detailed account of some of the top benefits of WooCommerce WhatsApp order notifications:
1. Instant communication for elevated CX
Time is key in eCommerce!
Third-party services like Swiggy or Uber Eats are becoming more sophisticated. Consumers want real-time updates on how their orders are progressing, and even courier businesses like FedEx are providing tracking links to their customers.
With WooCommerce WhatsApp order notifications, you can send them real-time updates directly to the customer's smartphones. But why WhatsApp?
With more than 2 billion users, it's one of the world's most widely used messaging apps! This indicates that your customers are probably already using it, making it easy to connect with them.
2. Induces repeat business
As per a recent finding, returning consumers can spend up to 67% more than brand-new ones. Therefore, WooCommerce stores can guarantee consistent revenue by retaining existing customers.
WhatsApp order notifications can induce repeat purchases by creating a seamless and engaging post-purchase experience. Here’s a simple workflow:
- Order confirmation: Send a WhatsApp message confirming your purchase as soon as possible.
- Shipping updates: Give customers tracking information and notify them when their product ships.
- Follow-up: A few days following delivery, send a message requesting comments or suggesting similar products.
3. Offers high-end customer engagement
According to research by Bain & Company, engaged customers spend 20-40% more compared to others.
Selling and promoting high-end products with additional capabilities to your devoted customers is made simpler with WooCommerce WhatsApp order notifications. Businesses can use this feature to their advantage through:
- Exclusive offers: Notifications can include personalized discounts or rewards to incentivize further purchases.
- Loyalty building: Regular interactions through WhatsApp help nurture long-term relationships.
- Rich media sharing: Brands can send videos or links to related content to enhance the shopping experience.
4. Provides personalization that resonates with customers
Consumers today desire to be treated as more than a number. According to Forbes, almost seventy percent of customers say they anticipate personalized interactions from brands, and 76% of customers feel dissatisfied when this doesn't happen.
WooCommerce stores can use WhatsApp to customize messages according to the preferences and behavior of their customers.
Consider the case of a health supplement retailer that sends customized offers to customers based on their previous purchases. If a consumer frequently purchases protein powder, a quick WhatsApp message can offer suggestions for more flavors.
When you provide this personal touch, customers are more likely to return because they will know that the company is aware of their demands.
5. Minimizes customer support workload
For any business, answering customer inquiries can take a lot of time. However, WhatsApp order notifications can expedite this procedure.
It decreases your team's support ticket handling volume by promptly responding to
- Order confirmations
- Tracking details
- FAQs
Imagine a WooCommerce store with an automated WhatsApp message that answers FAQs, such as delivery schedules or return policies. In this case, customers are less likely to contact support staff for common concerns, which increases operational efficiency and saves time.
How to set up WhatsApp order notifications on WooCommerce?
By integrating with Gallabox, businesses can seamlessly automate WhatsApp order notifications on WooCommerce. The setup is user-friendly, and businesses can customize message templates and automate notifications without technical expertise.
First, let's take a look at how to connect WooCommerce with Gallabox to enable WhatsApp order notifications.
- Step 1: Navigate to Integrations on the left. From the list of apps, scroll over WooCommerce Integration and select "Connect".
- Step 2: Press "connect" > Paste your shop URL > Hit "submit". You'll be prompted to approve Gallabox. Also, verify that you are signed in to WooCommerce using a different browser window.
- Step 3: Enter the Brand Name and the shop URL. Choose the WhatsApp Channel and then press "Configure".
Once you have connected your WooCommerce store with Gallabox, you can easily use the dashboard to send out automated WhatsApp order notifications.
Here are the key steps for automating WhatsApp order notifications at various stages of the purchase cycle:
1. Order processing notifications
To provide automated Order Processing notifications, you will need to set up an action plan under the Gallabox WooCommerce Integration. Here is how to do it!
- Step 1: Visit Integration on your Gallabox dashboard > Tap on the Integrated WooCommerce Application.
- Step 2: Open Workflow > Find the Use button next to the order processing workflow > Select the Message Template you wish to display when customers add a product to their cart.
- Step 3: Press "Submit" after mapping the variables for the chosen message templates.
2. Order cancelling notifications
Here are the key steps to initiate automated order cancellation notifications under the WooCommerce Integration with Gallabox.
- Step 1: Open your Gallabox dashboard and select Integration. Now, choose the WooCommerce Integrated Application.
- Step 2: Open Workflow > Find the Use button next to the order processing workflow > Select the message template you wish to showcase when customers add products to their cart.
- Step 3: Tap Submit after selecting the variables for the chosen message templates.
3. Refund notifications
Similar to the above two cases, you need to design a workflow under the WooCommerce integration section to automate order refund notifications for your customers.
- Step 1: Open your Gallabox dashboard and select Integration > Pick the WooCommerce Integrated Application.
- Step 2: Navigate to workflow > Press the "Use" option next to "Order Refunded Workflow" > Pick a message template of your choice to notify customers when their refund is initiated.
- Step 3: After mapping the variables for the chosen message templates, press the "Submit" button.
(All screenshots taken from Gallabox docs )
Best practices for WooCommerce WhatsApp notifications
Here are some best practices to help businesses maximize the effectiveness of their WooCommerce WhatsApp notifications:
1. Prioritize consent and compliance
Before you start sending notifications, always remember that consent is key. You cannot message customers at will; they should opt-in to receive your messages. This not only keeps you compliant with regulations like GDPR but also builds trust.
Include a checkbox asking "Would you like to receive order updates and promotions via WhatsApp?" when a consumer creates an account or makes a transaction. This ensures they’re on board from the beginning.
2. Utilize real-time order updates
Providing real-time order updates to your consumers is one of the uses for WhatsApp alerts. The customer experience can be greatly improved by sending notifications regarding
- Order confirmation
- Shipping updates
- Delivery confirmation
Consider Jassie, a consumer, placing an order for a brand-new pair of shoes. She gets a WhatsApp message shortly after placing her order that reads, "Hey Jassie! Order #12345 has been verified for you. We’ll notify you as soon as it ships.”
When her shoes are shipped a day later, she receives another message that reads, "Excellent news! Your shoes should arrive by Friday; they are currently in route." This keeps her informed and involved at every stage.
3. Personalize your messages
Customization can significantly increase your notifications' efficacy. Make use of customer names, customize communications according to their purchasing patterns, or even provide individualized discounts.
“Hey John! We noticed you enjoyed your last purchase. Here’s a 15% off coupon for your next order of winter jackets, just for you!”
This makes the customer feel valued and increases the chances of repeat purchase.
4. Limit frequency to avoid annoyance
Keeping your customers informed is important, but sending them too many messages might irritate them and possibly cause them to opt out. Hence, be mindful of your message frequency.
Instead of sending multiple messages for every small update, consider bundling info.
A single message summarizing all updates might be more appreciated: “Hi John! Your order #12345 has been packaged and is out for delivery. It should reach you by Friday!"
5. Use rich media for engagement
With WhatsApp's support for rich media, you can seamlessly incorporate images and links in your alerts. This can improve the customer experience and increase the engagement level of your communications.
For instance, you can incorporate an instructional video in a WhatsApp message you send to a customer who purchases a new device: "Thank you for your purchase! Here's how to configure your new gadget: [video link]. Feel free to ask any queries you may have!"
This extra measure can increase customer satisfaction and reduce queries.
6. Use feedback mechanisms
Using WhatsApp to get feedback will yield priceless information. After the customer receives their order, use brief surveys or quick questions to determine their level of satisfaction.
For instance: After delivery of the product, send a message like, "Hey Jane! We hope your new sneakers are a hit with you! How would you rank your shopping experience with us? Use 😊 for five stars, 😐 for three, and 😞 for one in your response."
This maintains the lines of communication open and aids in determining CSAT for better practices.
7. Promote limited-time offers
WhatsApp is perfect for promoting flash sales or time-sensitive offers. The immediacy of a WhatsApp message can create a sense of urgency that encourages customers to take quick action.
“Hey X! Just for you, we’re offering 20% off on all winter gear for the next 24 hours! Use code WINTER20. Don’t miss out!” This direct approach can help re-target customers and boost sales.
8. Provide support and assistance
Inform your customers that they can also use WhatsApp to contact you for assistance. This can improve customer satisfaction and result in speedier resolutions.
"Hello, Sarah! Please respond to this message if you need help placing your order or if you have any questions, and a member of our support staff will get in touch with you right away."
This nurtures a sense of reassurance in customers that their queries will be addressed promptly.
Boost CSAT with WooCommerce WhatsApp order notifications
Integrating WhatsApp with WooCommerce can improve customer satisfaction and expedite sales. It also enables you to increase your ROI quickly.
Wondering where to start? Choose a trusted WhatsApp Business API partner like Gallabox. We offer top-notch WhatsApp management tools and connectors for companies of all sizes and industries.
From automating WhatsApp order notifications to managing your sales, our intuitive dashboard will help you level up your WooCommerce store.
Start a free trial right away to explore the features of our WhatsApp WooCommerce integration!
FAQs about WooCommerce WhatsApp order notification
Are WhatsApp notifications automated in WooCommerce?
Yes, you can completely automate WhatsApp notifications in WooCommerce by connecting your store to the WhatsApp Business API using specific plugins or integrations like Gallabox.
Can I personalize my WhatsApp order notifications in WooCommerce?
Yes, you can use integrations like Gallabox to customize WhatsApp order notifications in WooCommerce. These allow you to mention various data fields, such as the customer's name and other variables, that help curate a personalized experience.
Are WhatsApp notifications more effective than email notifications for WooCommerce stores?
Yes, WhatsApp notifications are more effective than email notifications for WooCommerce stores because they promote higher response rates and prompt interactions.
