How to Generate Leads with WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a powerful platform for lead generation because it allows you to start a direct, personal conversation with a potential customer the moment they show interest. The key is to make it as easy as possible for them to start that conversation.

1. Click-to-WhatsApp Ads

This is the most effective method for high-volume lead generation.

• Platform: Run ads on Facebook and Instagram.
• How it Works: Instead of sending users to a landing page, the ad's call-to-action button says "Send Message." When clicked, it opens a WhatsApp chat with your business, often with a pre-filled message you can customize.
• LeadClose Integration: This new conversation appears instantly in your Team Inbox. Set up a Welcome Message auto-reply to engage the lead immediately.
• Strategy: Tailor your ad creative and pre-filled message to the specific offer. For example, an ad for a free consultation should have a pre-filled message like, "Hi, I'd like to book my free consultation."

[SCREENSHOT: An example of a Facebook Ad with a "Send Message" to WhatsApp CTA.]

2. Website Chat Widgets

• How it Works: Place a "Chat with us on WhatsApp" button or widget on your website. This is less intrusive than a traditional pop-up form.
• Placement: Add the widget to high-intent pages, like your pricing page, product pages, or contact page.
• Advantage: It captures leads who may have questions before they are ready to fill out a form. The barrier to starting a chat is much lower.

3. QR Codes (Offline to Online)

QR codes are perfect for bridging the gap between your physical and digital marketing efforts.

• How it Works: Create a QR code that, when scanned, opens a WhatsApp chat with a pre-filled message.
• Where to Use:
  • On product packaging
  • In-store displays and posters
  • Business cards
  • Event banners and flyers
• Strategy: Customize the pre-filled message for the context. A QR code on a product could start with, "Hi, I have a question about this product."

4. Gated Content and Lead Magnets

• How it Works: Offer a valuable piece of content (e.g., an e-book, a webinar recording, a checklist) in exchange for the user's WhatsApp number and opt-in.
• The Flow:
  1. A user fills out a short form on your landing page, including their phone number and a checkbox to opt-in for WhatsApp messages.
  2. Instead of emailing the content, send it directly to them on WhatsApp using a Utility Template with a document header or a link.
  • Template Example: "Hi {{1}}, here is the e-book you requested! We'll also send you occasional tips and offers on WhatsApp. Reply STOP to opt out."

FAQs

Q: Do I need an opt-in for leads coming from Click-to-WhatsApp ads? A: When a user messages you first from an ad, it opens a 24-hour customer service window. This is your chance to engage them and ask for permission (get the opt-in) to send them marketing messages in the future. Their initial message is not a blanket opt-in for all future promotions.

Q: Which method is best for getting started? A: The simplest and often most effective method to start with is a Click-to-WhatsApp ad campaign. It's managed within the Meta ecosystem and provides a seamless user experience.

Q: How do I track which leads came from where? A: Use unique pre-filled messages for each channel. For example, your website widget could pre-fill "Hi, I have a question from your website," while a QR code at an event could pre-fill "Hi, I met you at [Event Name]." This makes it easy to identify the lead source in your LeadClose inbox.