Which automatic messages exist
WhatsApp Business offers welcome messages, for when someone writes to you for the first time or after a while without talking, and away messages, for when you are outside your hours.
You can complement them with quick replies, which are shortcuts to answer frequent questions with a single tap.
How to turn them on
Inside the app, open the business tools settings and look for the away message and greeting message sections. Turn each one on, write the text and define when and to whom it is sent.
The exact option names may vary by version, so check your app's menu.
Welcome message example
Keep the text short, warm and useful. Introduce your business, say what the customer can do and share your catalog.
Example: "Hi! Thanks for writing to My Store. Here you can see all our products with prices: [link]. Tell us what you are interested in and we will help you right away".
Away message example
Say when you will be back and offer an alternative to move forward in the meantime:
- Your opening hours
- When you will reply
- Your catalog link so they can start choosing
- A reminder that their message was received
Define your real schedule
Schedule messages according to the hours you actually work. Promising a fast reply and not delivering is worse than promising nothing.
Mistakes to avoid
Avoid long texts, cold tones and messages that repeat needlessly. Check from time to time that the information is still current, such as hours and links.
Remember that automation helps start, but the real conversation is still yours.
With a few minutes of setup, your welcome and away messages serve customers at any time and help you avoid losing sales.
Check your settings today and add your catalog link to both messages.