How to Create a WhatsApp Template

Prerequisites for using WhatsApp at a location?

The location should have an active WhatsApp Subscription and the Meta onboarding should be completed.

Setting Up a WhatsApp Template

Step 1: Go to Settings -> WhatsApp -> Template tab -> Click on Create Template

Step 2: A new section will open where you will need to fill in the Template Name, Category, Language, and Header the information

To learn about Media Templates, please see our article, WhatsApp Media Template

Details around the fields available

Template Name - The name of the template should be set using lowercase characters.

Category - Slecet between the Marketing and Utility Category. 

Language - Select from the list of all the languages available.

Header (Optional) - You can add a static or a variable header. Only 1 custom variable is allowed in the header.

Step 3: Fill in additional details Body and Footer

Details around the fields available

1. Body - The message that would be sent to the customer. You can add multiple custom variables while creating the template by clicking on Add Variable. 
2. Footer (Optional) - You can add a static footer.

NOTE: Please fill sample value for all the custom variables added as Meta need examples to be sent while submitting the Template.

Adding Media:

• Images/Videos: Upload images or short videos (under 16 MB) to make your message more engaging.
• Documents: Attach PDFs or other documents that recipients can download.

• Locations: Add location details by inputting the latitude and longitude, which you can easily obtain from Google Maps.

Step 4 : Verify the template message and hit on Create

Step 5 : Now we will send this template to Meta for approval and you can track the status in the Template Tab.

Statuses for Templates

1. Pending - Template successfully submitted and sent to Meta for approval.
2. Approved - The template is successfully verified and can be used for seeing messages to the customers.
3. Rejected - The template was rejected by Meta and needs to be resubmitted. Read FAQ for re-submission

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Trigger Links Support for WhatsApp

The trigger links feature is also available for your WhatsApp templates. This powerful tool enhances customer engagement and automation by allowing you to track link clicks and trigger specific actions based on customer interactions. Here’s everything you need to know about this feature and how to use it effectively.

Easy How to-Use Steps

1. Create Trigger Links:
   • Create trigger link > Marketing > Trigger Links > Add Link

• Go to the settings section found on the bottom left of your platform.
• Navigate to WhatsApp > Templates.
• Create your desired template body and add variables as needed.
• Select the option to add Trigger Links from the available options.

1. Incorporate Trigger Links into Templates:
   • When designing your WhatsApp templates, choose the Trigger Links you have created.
   • Ensure the links are placed strategically within your message to maximize engagement.
2. Set Up Automated Workflows:
   • Use the platform’s automation tools to set up workflows triggered by link clicks.
   • Define the actions that should occur when a customer clicks on a Trigger Link, such as sending a follow-up message or updating customer records.

1. Monitor and Analyze Engagement:
   • Go to Marketing > Trigger Links and access the analytics section to monitor which links are being clicked and by whom.
   • Use this data to refine your communication strategies and improve future interactions.

Interactive CTA Buttons for WhatsApp

The Interactive CTA (Call-To-Action) buttons are designed to create more engaging and visually appealing messages. This feature allows users to respond quickly, visit websites, make phone calls, copy offer codes, opt out of marketing messages, and format text for better emphasis.

How to Use:

1. Navigate to Settings > WhatsApp > Templates.
2. Create Template > Add Button.

1. Select the type of CTA button you wish to add: Quick Reply, Visit Website, Personalized Website Link, Call Phone Number, Copy Offer Code, or Marketing Opt-Out.

Quick Replies:

• Allow users to respond quickly with predefined options, enhancing the conversation flow and user engagement. This allows customers to reply without typing.

Visit Website:

• Direct users to your website with a single click, increasing traffic and improving conversion rates.

Personalized Website Links:

• Utilize dynamic “Visit Website” buttons to customize links for each customer, offering a personalized experience and boosting engagement.
• Adding a variable creates a personalized link for the customer to view their info. Only one variable can be added to the end of a URL.

Call Phone Number:

• Provide an option for users to call a specified phone number directly from the message, facilitating immediate communication and support.

Copy Offer Code:

• Enable users to easily copy promotional codes or offer details, making it convenient for them to redeem offers.

Marketing Opt-Out:

• Give users the option to opt out of marketing messages effortlessly, ensuring compliance with WhatsApp regulations and improving user trust.

Note: Only one variable can be added to the end of a URL for personalized website links.

Message view on WhatsApp:

FAQ

Q1: How do we add custom variables in Header and Body of a Template?

Step 1 - Click on add variable available under Header or Body.

Step 2 - Click on tag icon and select the custom variable (as in this case it is contact name) and a sample text(Shubham Gupta in this case).

Q2: How do you submit a rejected template or edit a previously approved template?

Step 1 - Click on the accordion icon and hit Edit Template

Step 2 - Fill in all the information again and hit Create.

Q3: What happens if my WhatsApp template is rejected by Meta?
If your WhatsApp template is rejected, Meta will provide a reason for the rejection. You can review the feedback, make the necessary changes, and resubmit the template for approval.

Q4: How long does it take for a WhatsApp template to get approved by Meta?
The approval process for a WhatsApp template typically takes between a few minutes to 24 hours, depending on Meta's review process. You can track the status of your template under the "Templates" tab.

Q5: Can I include media in my WhatsApp templates, such as images or videos?
Yes, you can include media in your WhatsApp templates. You can upload images, short videos (under 16 MB), and documents (like PDFs) to enhance your messages and make them more engaging.