WhatsApp is a powerful tool for small businesses in India to connect with customers and grow their base with features like API connectors, multimedia capabilities, and encryption
WhatsApp offers cost-effective and convenient features like catalogues, labels, business profiles, automated messages, and quick replies to help businesses reach their target audience
By using WhatsApp effectively, small businesses can improve communication, drive sales, and increase revenue to succeed in a competitive business environment
With over 2.24 Bn active users globally, Facebook-owned Whatsapp is one of the most popular communication applications worldwide. Research shows that in India, an average WhatsApp user uses this messaging app for more than 21 hours every month for various activities.
With its API connector, multimedia capabilities, and end-to-end encryption ensuring data protection and safety, WhatsApp is a tool tailor-made for small businesses. Given their limited resources, small business owners often find it challenging to reach their customers with cost-effective marketing strategies. Further, in this digitalised world, customers expect hyper-personalisation and timely communication.
With its range of features, such as:
- Catalogue
- Labels
- Business Profile
- Automated message
- Quick reply shortcuts
WhatsApp is building its capabilities to support small businesses. Thanks to WhatsApp, SMB owners can not only sustain communication with their customers, but they can also promote their products and use it as an effective marketing tool.
Now that you have learnt how effective WhatsApp is let us now look at how it can help you and your business grow further in 2023.
Helps In Creating A Customised Profile
WhatsApp Business is a helpful tool for creating a custom profile that can help you showcase the unique positioning of your business to a host of users. In addition, useful business information details such as website, location and business hours presented in an exciting manner can create an immediate impact and intrigue in customers.
Building Personal Relationships
WhatsApp also provides an opportunity to build personal relationships with your customers. With its instant messaging feature, businesses can respond to their customer’s inquiries and questions in real-time, creating a more personalised experience.
It can be integral for small businesses, as the customer feels valued and appreciated compared to larger corporations that may not respond promptly.
Addressing Frequently Asked Questions
Every customer is looking for ways to get in touch with businesses quickly. Through the ‘Quick Replies’ feature on WhatsApp under the Business tool, you can create up to 50 unique replies, answering the most frequently asked questions.
This helps save a customer’s time and resolve issues quickly. It is important to add replies to basic questions like the timing of your business, return and refund policies, availability of products, and updates on orders.
For Promotional Purposes
A WhatsApp broadcast is an excellent tool for businesses looking to increase their customer base. You only need to create a broadcast list to reach a large audience with a single click. This function is great for SMBs, as it is cost-effective and doesn’t require sending mass emails.
You can use it to promote a sale, announce a new product, restock frequently bought products, and much more. However, use it sparingly to prevent customers from blocking your business.
Instant Lead Generation
When you promote ads on Instagram and Facebook, you can redirect them to your WhatsApp business. One of the primary advantages is that you will receive the phone numbers of potential customers without them having to fill out a form.
When you use WhatsApp ads, you have better chances of converting a user into a customer than if you directed them to a landing page.
To Add Catalogues And Collections
You can create an inventory catalogue within WhatsApp itself. You can upload pictures and add prices, descriptions, website links, and product codes. Apart from this, you can also create a unique catalogue for easier browsing, especially during a sale or a festive occasion.
It allows customers to quickly browse through your products without having to visit your website. In addition, customers with slower internet connectivity can also access your catalogues.
Send Automatic Notifications
Many payment requests, order notifications, and shipping updates are sent through SMS or email, but the response rate may not always be high. That’s why many businesses are using WhatsApp Business notifications instead.
For this, you must use third-party software for a nominal fee. You can send customers reminders about the products in their shopping cart, order and payment updates, delivery information, and more.
To conclude, WhatsApp is a powerful tool for small businesses in India looking to connect with their customers and grow their customer base. With its widespread adoption, affordability, and ability to build personal relationships with customers, WhatsApp provides businesses with a cost-effective and convenient way to reach their target audience. By using the platform effectively, small businesses can improve communication, drive sales, and increase revenue, helping them succeed in today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment.
