5 Proven Strategies for Collecting WhatsApp Opt-ins

Build Bridges with WhatsApp Opt-Ins

Think of WhatsApp opt-ins as a digital invitation sent to your customers. They allow them to directly engage with your brand and receive messages and notifications with exclusive permission. It is a way for them to say that they would like to keep in touch and see relevant updates from you. 

Now, why does this matter? 

Because in the digital marketing field, spamming can turn loyal fans into ghost followers faster than you can say ‘unsubscribe’. You can only build trust and sell your products when your audience willingly lets you slide into their inboxes.

WhatsApp is a holy grail of connection, with millions using it daily. It is a great platform for businesses to connect with customers directly and build relationships. However, to keep your messages welcomed, you need their thumbs-up before dropping those notifications. 

Interestingly, 54% of customers are keen to opt-in for customer support after conversing with a brand through WhatsApp. In this blog, we will learn about five clever ways to collect those coveted WhatsApp opt-ins and turn casual chats into lasting relationships.

Consent with a Click- 5 Opt-In Strategies to Make Customers Say ‘Yes’

Do you know that 57% of global customers regularly connect with their favorite brands via WhatsApp?

Collecting consents for these interactions is actually walking a fine line: You want customers to opt in enthusiastically, not grudgingly. With opt-ins, you are giving customers a chance to stay connected in real time without drowning in email or SMS notifications. WhatsApp’s high open rate and conversational style make it a top choice for brands that want to be just a message away.

Here are five ways to capture consent effectively without any hassle:

1. Request opt-ins when customers seek support

A tip for you to begin with: when customers come to you for help, they are already engaged, so why not turn that chat into a long-term conversation? A WhatsApp chatbot can greet them with a friendly “Hey! Would you like to stay updated?” and with that, your customers are hooked. WhatsApp chatbots and conversational AI are fantastic at keeping things smooth and easy. 

• Why this works: Support conversations make opt-ins feel natural, and the chatbot is available 24/7. With WhatsApp’s high response rate, customers enjoy instant support.

2. Use pop-ups or QR codes on your homepage 

Catchy pop-ups and QR codes on your homepage could say, “Want exclusive updates? Join us on WhatsApp!” Add a little incentive, such as discounts or early access to products, and your website visitor count will increase. Moreover, QR codes are especially handy for mobile users — they scan, tap, and let customers in. 

• Why this works: Pop-ups and QR codes grab attention and simplify the opt-in process. They are easy to customize, giving your brand personality. And you can generate QR codes with pre-filled messages to give users a heads-up in the conversation.

3. Create a custom landing page

The landing page dedicated to WhatsApp opt-ins lets your customers know why connecting here will elevate their brand experience. With clear messaging and a few enticing benefits, you can spread the word by cross-promoting this landing page on social media or email.

• Why this works: A custom landing page for WhatsApp makes the opt-in process feel exclusive, with a single purpose that drives conversions.

4. Add click-to-WhatsApp ads

If you are looking for your customers via Facebook or Instagram, you can leverage click-to-WhatsApp ads. These ads let your users jump right into a WhatsApp chat with your brand with just one click. Just with a “Send Message” button, you’ve turned a casual scroll into an active opt-in.

• Why this works: These ads not only capture attention but also make opting in feel like a natural extension of the ad experience. They are targeted, trackable, and ideal for starting customer-initiated chats. You can pre-fill messages based on the ad’s content to make them more unique.

5. Ask for an opt-in at checkout

Customers at checkout are as engaged as they will ever be. Including a WhatsApp opt-in here with something like “Want updates on your order and exclusive tips? Opt in on WhatsApp!” 

As you collect WhatsApp numbers here, you are perfectly set up to send order confirmations, delivery updates, and tailored recommendations.

• Why this works: Checkout is the sweet spot for final-stage opt-ins. Customers are already excited, so they are more likely to say yes to staying connected for perks like exclusive tips or follow-up services.

Bonus tip: Links for custom opt-ins

Share a link to open WhatsApp API directly, complete with a pre-populated message like “Yes, I’d like updates!” Customers initiating the conversation themselves save you from needing WhatsApp-approved templates. You can add links to your “Contact Us” page or even product pages to guide those exploring your offerings.

• Why this works: An URL with a pre-filled message lowers the barrier for opt-in, making it one-click easy. And for your business, that is another lead ready to receive updates

Why Opt-Ins Are Your Brand’s Secret Power?

Opt-ins do more than just get you on a customer’s phone. Think of them as the VIP pass that turns your brand’s messages into welcomed, value-packed interactions rather than unwanted pings. They increase open rates, deepen loyalty, and let customers feel they are in the loop, not on a spam list. 

By capturing a customer’s consent, you are set up to send timely updates, deliver personalized offers, and provide real-time support. Whether it is conversational support, conversational marketing, or sales, opt-ins are essential in welcoming subscribers on WhatsApp.

Types of WhatsApp opt-ins

When it comes to opt-in types, WhatsApp makes it easy to keep customers informed, reassured, and entertained. Each opt-in type is a new way to show your brand is ready to engage without ever feeling intrusive:

• Delivery updates: Who doesn’t love a ‘Your package is on the way!’ message? It keeps the excitement alive and minimizes order status inquiries.
• Appointment reminders: For services, a quick “Reminder: Your appointment is tomorrow” can reduce no-shows.
• Order confirmations: A message confirming their order details builds trust and lets them double-check right away.
• Account balances: Banks and financial services can give instant, secure updates on balances or payments.
• Product suggestions: Offer personalized recommendations, sparking customer curiosity to click.
• Offers and discounts: Make your customers’ days with exclusive deals that feel tailored, increasing conversion without spamming.

Tap, Click, Chat- How to Nail Your WhatsApp Opt-in Strategy

Ready to turn your WhatsApp opt-in game up a notch? With the right strategy, you can make signing up for WhatsApp updates feel like an irresistible invitation to your brand’s membership club. 

Here’s how to create a winning opt-in approach that not only captures numbers but builds lasting relationships:

Create compelling messages

The secret to a great opt-in message lies in its clarity and allure. Clearly lay out the benefits of why customers should hit that button. Are they getting exclusive updates, access to flash sales, or maybe first dibs on product launches? Whatever that is, communicate it simply and keep it brief. 

Incentivize opt-ins with exclusive offers or content

Offering exclusive content, discounts, or early access adds that little extra nudge customers need to subscribe. Base these incentives on user preferences and behaviours. If someone’s been eyeing your products, a tailored discount could tip them into loyal-follower territory.

Personalization and segmentation techniques

With WhatsApp, personalization goes far beyond. Using your data, segment users by purchase history, location, or interests, and tailor messages accordingly. Personalization means showing customers you know what they want and that you have got it ready. 

According to Salesforce, 80% of customers prioritize the experience as good as the products. So. there is no one-size-fits-all message; your approach should flex to fit each audience slice. Test different messaging approaches with various segments to pinpoint what clicks with each group. 

Using multimedia to enhance engagement

In the age of emojis, memes, and Instagram reels, a plain message might not cut it. Spice things up with visuals like images, videos, and GIFs to keep conversations lively. Think product sneak peeks, fun ‘how-to’ videos, or mini video updates. Top brands use WhatsApp not just to inform but to engage, creating short, attention-grabbing visuals that convey value.

Also, interactive features like polls or quizzes are a hit on WhatsApp. They give users a voice in the conversation, and they are fun and fast, and get users involved.

Using WhatsApp chat buttons

Sometimes, people do not want to type; they just want to tap. Chat buttons help streamline interactions, offering users pre-defined choices. 

For instance, a restaurant might offer ‘Menu’, ‘Order Status’, and ‘Promotions’ buttons. With this setup, customers get immediate results without needing to type anything, and your team enjoys the benefits of faster, more efficient communication.

What’s Your Next Move for WhatsApp Success?

WhatsApp opt-ins are the cornerstone of effective WhatsApp marketing. When you secure explicit consent from your customers, it means you are laying the groundwork for a genuine relationship with your audience. This approach boosts engagement and ensures you are playing by the rules of messaging regulations. 

Now, if you want to elevate your opt-in game without the hassle, look no further than Gupshup. Our platform can be your friend, philosopher, and marketing guide, providing powerful tools that make collecting consent a breeze. With Gupshup, you can effortlessly build engaging campaigns that drive conversions faster.

Remember, WhatsApp opt-ins are about delivering clear value, personalizing your touchpoints, and respecting user preferences. To make the most out of it, connect with us today!

FAQs

1. How often should I communicate with my WhatsApp opt-in audience?

Maintain a balance; regular updates are good, but avoid overwhelming customers. Aim for valuable content at strategic intervals.

2. How can I measure the success of my WhatsApp opt-in campaigns?

Track engagement rates, conversion metrics, and customer feedback to evaluate the effectiveness of your opt-in campaign and optimize future efforts.

3. Can I use WhatsApp opt-ins for multiple marketing channels?

Absolutely! Integrate WhatsApp opt-ins with email, social media, and SMS campaigns for a cohesive multi-channel marketing strategy.