What Is WhatsApp Business? WhatsApp Business vs. WhatsApp Explained

WhatsApp Business vs. WhatsApp

While WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Business use similar interfaces and are owned by the same parent company, several differences set them apart.

One key difference is that WhatsApp is meant for personal communication, while WhatsApp Business is built for businesses. As a result, many features are unavailable in the original WhatsApp application. For example, you can't automate messages using WhatsApp, but you can with the business WhatsApp platform. This allows you to send messages to clients at just the right time.

Thanks to the capabilities of the WhatsApp Business app, you have more ways to interact with your target market.

WhatsApp Business features

There are various features you can take advantage of when using the business WhatsApp application–many of which can help improve customer experience and streamline your workflow.

Some of the most popular features include:

• Automated messages. You can send automatic messages to your customers and visitors, streamlining your workflow. For example, you may want to send an automated message to your customers welcoming them to your platform. Or, you might be interested in sending an automated notification to let them know their message was received.
• Business profile. By using the WhatsApp Business platform, you can set up a business profile that includes your hours of operation, website link, phone number, address, and more.
• Organizational tools. There are plenty of organizational tools you can use to streamline your workflow. For example, you might want to apply labels to specific chats or use a contact label to find people quickly.
• Mobile storefront. If you have a WhatsApp Business account, you can also build catalogs. This mobile storefront can be used to showcase your products on the platform. This is a great way to communicate directly with your target market regarding offers, discounts, and products.
• Targeted ads. You can even create advertisements on the platform. With WhatsApp ads, you can target visitors with advertisements that'll capture their attention. As a result, you can spread the word about the products and services you offer.
• Message metrics. You can also take advantage of message statistics and detailed insights that display the performance of your website. For example, you can figure out what automated messages are effective by using predefined metrics, such as the number of messages delivered, received, and read. You can even use this feature to A/B test different messaging strategies and pinpoint ways to improve your campaign.
• Easy payments. The payment feature allows you to send and receive payments directly on the app. That means you can use WhatsApp Business to create an end-to-end shopping solution for your visitors.

If you're looking for a way to improve your small online business, you might want to take advantage of everything WhatsApp Business has to offer.

WhatsApp Business pricing

The WhatsApp Business app is free to download and use, making it perfect for small businesses with limited budgets. The first 1,000 conversations every month are also free. So, you can learn how the application works, deepen your relationship with customers, and understand how each feature benefits your company.

You'll also have to pay for subsequent conversations after reaching 1,000, and there are 2 different ways those conversations are priced.

• Conversations initiated by WhatsApp users: This means that the user reached out to your company for more information.
• Conversations initiated by the business: This occurs when you send messages to users first.

These conversations are priced differently, and the pricing varies depending on your location. Different countries have different pricing standards based on their currency. Understanding how your business will be charged moving forward is essential.

Should you use the WhatsApp Business app?

So, should your business use the WhatsApp Business app? Here are a few benefits and limitations to keep in mind as you weigh your options.

• Many monthly users. There are 2 billion monthly active users on WhatsApp, making it one of the most popular mobile messaging applications. As such, you can get your products in front of as many people as possible. Various users are also familiar with the WhatsApp platform, so you don't have to encourage clients to hop on the app.

• Instant line of communication. Because the app is available to download on your smartphone, you always have an instant line of communication with your customers. Even if you're between meetings, you can quickly address client concerns and provide support.
• Advanced organizational features. There are several organizational features that allow you to sort conversations. For example, you might want to create a separate email list for certain people, which the program will enable you to do quickly.
• Save time. You can free up your time by taking advantage of the automated messaging feature. You might also want to use quick replies to help you interact with your customers without stopping your workflow. This enables you to send a greeting message to new customers who interact with your brand.
• Handle payments in one place. With a WhatsApp Business account, you can create an end-to-end shopping experience for your customers. They can purchase items directly from your mobile storefront, and you can handle the payment through the app. This process makes it even easier for you to boost your sales.

While there are many benefits to using the WhatsApp Business app, you must also consider the drawbacks. They include:

• GDPR Issues. If you plan to conduct business overseas, the application only partially complies with GDPR regulations. This means that you could face some data protection issues. The application automatically reads all stored contact information, so you may need to take a closer look at the settings to turn off this feature.
• A limited number of devices. The mobile app can only be installed on 1 smartphone and 4 other devices. The devices have to be linked to the same number, making it challenging for you to have multiple employees on the same account.
• One employee account. All employees have to work under the same account. So, customers may not know who they’re talking to.

Remember, the business WhatsApp app is free to use. So, you can download the app, learn the ropes, and determine if it's a good fit for your company. Like any app, there are advantages and limitations you'll have to consider before finalizing your decision and choosing to invest more resources into the app.

Strengthen your customer service with WhatsApp Business

Customer service is vital for every business, and ensuring you have the tools to meet and surpass client expectations can help your customer service team and company thrive.

If you want to improve your customer service, the WhatsApp Business application may be a great option. This mobile app can strengthen your relationship with customers, automate manual and time-consuming tasks, and empower you to stay on top of business activities.

Mailchimp's automation and email marketing platform also has several features that can help take your customer service to the next level. Whether you want to manage your audience or create targeted ads for Facebook, we're here to support your marketing efforts with advanced business tools.