WhatsApp is one of the most used communication apps in the world, and in countries like Brazil, it has become an essential tool not only for chatting with friends but also for doing business. For small entrepreneurs, using WhatsApp strategically can be an excellent way to increase sales, build customer relationships, and grow their business.
In this article, you’ll learn how to use WhatsApp to sell more and communicate better with your customers.
Why Use WhatsApp for Business?
Some of the advantages of using WhatsApp for small businesses include:
- Direct and immediate communication with customers
- High message opening rate (over 90%)
- Free and easy-to-use platform
- Strengthens the relationship between business and customer
- Allows sending promotions, news, and exclusive content
With over 2 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp is a powerful and accessible sales channel.
How to Use WhatsApp to Increase Sales
1. Create a WhatsApp Business Account
WhatsApp Business is a free app created specifically for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers several features that help you manage communication with customers professionally.
Some key features:
- Business profile with information such as address, website, and business hours
- Automated greeting and absence messages
- Quick replies to frequently asked questions
- Product catalog
- Labels to organize contacts and conversations
Using WhatsApp Business makes your communication more organized and efficient.
2. Organize Your Contact List
Avoid sending messages to random people. Create and maintain a qualified contact list with customers who:
- Have already bought from you
- Have shown interest in your products or services
- Signed up to receive promotions
Respect privacy rules and always ask for authorization before sending promotional messages.
3. Use WhatsApp Catalog
One of the most useful tools for small businesses is the product or service catalog available on WhatsApp Business. It allows you to:
- Add photos, descriptions, and prices
- Update products in real-time
- Make it easier for the customer to browse your offers
This speeds up the purchase process and makes your customer service more professional.
4. Create Personalized and Humanized Service
One of the main advantages of WhatsApp is proximity. Customers expect quick, friendly, and personalized service.
Some tips:
- Respond quickly and clearly
- Use the customer’s name whenever possible
- Avoid overly formal language (unless your audience requires it)
- Be available to clarify doubts and offer support
A good customer experience increases the chances of closing the sale and retaining the customer.
5. Send Promotions and Exclusive Offers
WhatsApp is a direct communication channel. Take advantage of this to send:
- Exclusive discount coupons
- Special offers for loyal customers
- News and product launches
- Birthday greetings and special dates
But be careful: don’t overdo it. Excessive messages can irritate the customer and lead to blocking.
6. Use Groups and Broadcast Lists Strategically
WhatsApp allows you to send mass messages through Broadcast Lists or create Groups. But there are important differences:
- Broadcast Lists: The message is sent individually to each contact. Ideal for promotions.
- Groups: All participants can interact. Use for VIP customers or specific communities.
Always get consent before adding customers to groups and respect privacy and interaction limits.
7. Automate Without Losing Human Contact
You can use automation tools integrated with WhatsApp Business to:
- Send automated greetings and absence messages
- Trigger automatic responses to common questions
- Organize your agenda and contacts
However, use automation responsibly and without losing the human touch. People don’t want to talk to robots all the time.
8. Integrate with Your Sales Process
Use WhatsApp as part of your complete sales strategy:
- Add a WhatsApp button on your website, social media, and online store
- Use it to close sales initiated on other channels
- Offer after-sales service and support via WhatsApp
The easier you make it for the customer to contact you, the greater the chances of selling.
Important Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Don’t send messages to people who haven’t authorized it (this may violate privacy laws).
- Don’t send spam.
- Always allow the customer to opt out of receiving messages.
- Be transparent about how you will use the customer’s contact.
Respecting these rules ensures that your strategy is ethical and doesn’t harm your business reputation.
WhatsApp Can Boost Your Sales
When used strategically, WhatsApp becomes a powerful sales and relationship tool. It allows you to be close to your customer, offer personalized service, and increase the chances of selling.
Start today by organizing your WhatsApp Business profile, creating your product catalog, and offering excellent service. Your small business will thank you.