WhatsApp messaging enables real-time communication with your customers, offering high engagement and visibility, similar to Facebook Messenger. It combines the immediacy of SMS with interactive messaging capabilities, ensuring low response times. You can integrate a new number from the system or connect an existing WhatsApp Personal or Business number to leverage this powerful communication tool.
Getting Started with WhatsApp Integration #
Before diving into the integration process, ensure you have the following:
- An active CRM account with administrative access.
- A valid WhatsApp number or a verified CRM phone number.
Unsupported Countries #
Note: WhatsApp Business account phone numbers from the following countries and regions are not supported:
- Australia
- India
- Japan
- Nigeria
- Philippines
- Russia
- South Korea
- South Africa
- Turkey
- European Economic Area (EEA)
- European Union (EU)
- United Kingdom (UK)
Creating a Profile #
If you have not created a WhatsApp Business account, you can do so during setup. The steps to follow are:
- Add the WhatsApp Business account name. This will be the name you select when connecting your Facebook profile.
- Set a display name; this will be shown to your contacts and must match your business name.
- Select a category for your business; this information is used by Meta to promote your business.
After filling in the information, click Next and add the phone number you will be using for WhatsApp before selecting a verification method. Once the phone is verified, your WhatsApp profile will be connected.
Once the profile has been created or selected, click Save to accept the permissions, then click Finish to set the connection.
After finishing the Facebook log-in, you will be prompted to add a phone number to the system. Once selected, you will no longer be able to access it from the WhatsApp mobile app. Select the suitable time zone from the available options.
Importing Contacts and Chat History #
Import your contacts and up to six months of chat history from the WhatsApp Business app by scanning the QR Code displayed on the screen. Connecting your WhatsApp Business app ensures seamless integration, allowing you to retain full access to its features while utilizing the CRM.
Once the phone number is verified, it will be connected to the CRM so you can start managing your WhatsApp conversations and business profile. This extra conversation channel allows you to connect better with your clients. Check the articles "WhatsApp Business Profile Management" and "Conversations & WhatsApp" to learn more about WhatsApp communications.
Important Notes #
- Sending template messages is not supported via the WhatsApp Business App; templates can only be sent through the CRM.
- You will be able to manage your WhatsApp profile from the WhatsApp Business App and not from the CRM.
- During the synchronisation process, please ensure that your WhatsApp Business App remains open and active on your device and that your device maintains a stable internet connection throughout the process. These steps are crucial for a successful and uninterrupted data transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions #
What do I need before integrating WhatsApp? #
You need an active CRM account with administrative access and a valid WhatsApp number or a verified CRM phone number.
Which countries are not supported for WhatsApp Business numbers? #
Unsupported regions include Australia, India, Japan, Nigeria, the Philippines, Russia, South Korea, South Africa, Turkey, the EEA, the EU, and the UK.
Can I connect my existing WhatsApp number? #
Yes. You can integrate a new number from the system or connect an existing WhatsApp Personal or Business number during setup.
Can I bring over my existing chat history? #
Yes. You can import your contacts and up to six months of chat history from the WhatsApp Business app by scanning the QR Code shown on screen.
Why can’t I send template messages from the WhatsApp Business App? #
Template messages can only be sent through the CRM. The WhatsApp Business App does not support sending templates, though you still manage your profile there.
What should I do during synchronisation? #
Keep the WhatsApp Business App open and active on your device and maintain a stable internet connection throughout the process to ensure a successful, uninterrupted data transfer.
