How to Use WhatsApp For Your Business

There is no doubt that social media networks and messaging apps have revolutionalised the way people interact, engage and communicate. Today the communication has gone beyond just individuals, it is now being used for business purposes. One of such social media platforms that have proven to very relevant for businesses is WhatsApp which has more than 1.2 billion users globally. The question now is how can your business use WhatsApp? This article discusses some of the ways.

Real-time customer service

Let’s face it, providing real-time customer service is a luxury that many small businesses cannot afford, but with WhatsApp, you and your small staff can answer any questions your customers might have quickly. And because the app supports a variety of media, you can use text, audio or video to provide a personal customer service experience.

Gather feedback

Research has discovered that the open rate for WhatsApp messages is between 70% and 98%. So instead of calling customers for feedback, you can create questions for your group that will deliver answers that are relevant to your business. This is marketing research at its best, and it is free. With the feedback you receive from your customers, you can respond to their requests and improve the products and services you provide.

Personalised interactions

As your WhatsApp group continues to grow, you can personalise the interaction with your customers using one-on-one communication. This is especially important for small businesses because you can have a direct relationship, where customers can message you if they need a particular product, have a question or need support. WhatsApp can be accessed on your smartphone, tablet or PC so you will be able to talk to your customers anytime if you choose to make yourself available.

Creating and targeting groups

Your small business probably specializes in a particular product or service, and by creating or targeting groups in WhatsApp that are interested in related topics, you can increase your customer base. If you have created video content and provide live-support, members will share it with contacts that are outside of the group. This can lead to more users consuming the content, joining the group and eventually even becoming customers.

Share promotional codes, flash sales

With the new Status feature, you can create special promotional codes your customers can share to redeem at your business. Using the instant photo and location feature, Status can let everyone in your group know about the promotions you are running. This could include a two-hour flash sale or a one day special to drive in traffic and create buzz. Based on interaction levels, you can expand the promotion with WhatsApp-Status exclusive coupons or promotions.

Demo your product

Whether you make your own products or just sell them as a retailer, you can demo them on Status and let your group know when you have a new item in your inventory. Even if the customer doesn’t need this particular product now, knowing it is available, what it does, and how to use it will keep the product — and your business — top of mind when the time comes to buy.

Giveaways

You can have weekly, monthly or even daily giveaways to bring traffic to your store, or visitors to your website. Since WhatsApp and Status are free, the only cost of such promotions are the promotional products or services you give away. This considerably lowers the overhead of any marketing venture.