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Introduction
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to connect your WhatsApp account, set up notifications, and customize message delivery.
Whether you're a developer or a business owner, understanding these steps ensures seamless communication with your users, enhancing engagement and operational efficiency.
Connecting Your WhatsApp Account
Before you can send notifications, you must connect your WhatsApp account to your chatbot platform. This process involves choosing between two options:
WhatsApp Cloud API
Regular WhatsApp (Business API)
Steps to Connect Your WhatsApp Account
Access the Dashboard: Log into your chatbot platform's dashboard.
Navigate to WhatsApp Integration:
Locate the section labeled "WhatsApp" or "Messaging".
Choose Your Connection Type:
Select either WhatsApp Cloud or Regular WhatsApp.
Connect Your Account:
Follow prompts to authenticate and authorize your WhatsApp account.
For WhatsApp Cloud, you'll typically need to log in via Facebook Business Manager.
For Regular WhatsApp, you'll need your phone number and API credentials.
Verify Connection:
Ensure the connection is active and your account is linked successfully.
Once connected, your chatbot can send notifications directly to users via WhatsApp.
Sending WhatsApp Notifications
Types of Notifications
There are primarily two types of WhatsApp notifications you can send:
Notification Type | Description | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
WhatsApp Notification | Immediate message sent directly to a user | Real-time alerts, updates, reminders |
WhatsApp Template Notification | Pre-approved message templates used for outside 24-hour window | Transactional messages, confirmations |
Sending a Basic WhatsApp Notification
Create an Action Block:
In your chatbot flow, add an "Action" block.
Select Notifications:
Choose "Notifications" from the options.
Choose WhatsApp Notification:
Select "WhatsApp Notification".
Configure the Notification:
Click "Edit Action".
Select Phone Number:
Use either a static phone number or a system field (e.g., user’s phone number).
Compose Message:
Enter your message directly or use variables for dynamic content.
Save and Activate:
Confirm your settings and save.
When triggered, this will send a WhatsApp message to the specified user.
Sending Notifications Outside the 24-Hour Window
If a user hasn't interacted within 24 hours, you must use a Message Template:
Create a Template Notification:
In your notification setup, select "WhatsApp Template Notification".
Configure the Template:
Choose the appropriate message template (pre-approved by WhatsApp).
Fill in required variables or placeholders.
Select Phone Number:
As before, choose static or dynamic.
Send the Notification:
Save your configuration.
The system will send the template message outside the 24-hour window.
Customizing Your WhatsApp Notifications
Dynamic vs. Static Content
Static Messages: Fixed text, suitable for standard notifications.
Variable Content: Use system fields or variables to personalize messages dynamically.
Example Message Setup
Field | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
Phone Number | Static/System Field | e.g., +1234567890 or user’s phone number variable |
Message Content | Static/Variable | e.g., "Hello, {user_name}! Your order {order_id} has shipped." |
Using Message Templates
Templates are pre-approved messages that comply with WhatsApp policies.
They often include placeholders for personalization.
Examples include order confirmations, appointment reminders, or support updates.
Best Practices for WhatsApp Notifications
Ensure Connection: Always verify your WhatsApp account is properly connected before sending notifications.
Use Variables Wisely: Personalize messages with user data for better engagement.
Respect User Preferences: Avoid spamming; adhere to WhatsApp's policies.
Test Notifications: Send test messages to confirm formatting and delivery.
Monitor Delivery: Track message status to ensure successful delivery.
Summary Table: Step-by-Step Process
Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
1 | Connect WhatsApp | Use dashboard to link your account via Cloud or Business API |
2 | Create Action Block | Add notification actions in your chatbot flow |
3 | Select Notification Type | WhatsApp Notification or Template Notification |
4 | Configure Phone Number | Static or dynamic system field |
5 | Compose Message | Static text or variables for personalization |
6 | Save & Test | Ensure messages are correctly formatted and sent |
Final Thoughts
Integrating WhatsApp notifications into your chatbot system enhances communication, providing timely updates and personalized interactions. Proper setup involves connecting your account, choosing the right notification type, and customizing messages to suit your audience. By following these steps, you can leverage WhatsApp's powerful messaging capabilities to improve user engagement and operational efficiency.