WhatsApp Message Templates: A Complete Guide
Message templates are pre-approved message formats that allow businesses to send specific types of messages to customers through WhatsApp. This guide covers everything you need to know about creating, using, and optimizing WhatsApp message templates with Broadcastly.
Important
What are Message Templates?
Message templates are pre-approved message formats that businesses can use to send notifications, updates, and other non-promotional content to customers through WhatsApp. Templates ensure that businesses can send structured messages that comply with WhatsApp's policies.
Templates can include variables (placeholders) that are replaced with actual values when the message is sent, allowing for personalization while maintaining a consistent format.
Why Use Templates?
There are several benefits to using WhatsApp message templates:
- Compliance with WhatsApp's policies
- Higher message delivery rates
- Ability to send messages outside the 24-hour customer service window
- Consistent messaging across your customer base
- Personalization through variables
- Ability to include interactive elements like buttons
Template Components
WhatsApp message templates consist of several components, each with its own purpose and formatting requirements.
Header
The header is the first part of your message template. It can be one of the following types:
Text Header
A simple text header with a maximum of 60 characters. Can include variables.
Welcome to {{1}}!Body
The body is the main content of your message template. It can include up to 1024 characters and support formatting like bold, italic, and variables.
Example Body:
\ Hello {{1}},
Your order #{{2}} has been shipped and is on its way to you. You can track your package using the following tracking number: {{3}}.
Estimated delivery date: {{4}}
Footer
The footer appears at the bottom of your message template. It can include up to 60 characters but cannot include variables.
Example Footer:
Thank you for shopping with us!
Buttons
You can add interactive buttons to your message templates. There are three types of buttons:
- Call to Action: Directs users to a website or phone call
- Quick Reply: Allows users to send a predefined response
- Dynamic URL: Similar to Call to Action but with variable URLs
Creating Templates in Broadcastly
Broadcastly makes it easy to create and manage WhatsApp message templates. Follow these steps:
- Navigate to the Templates section in your Broadcastly dashboard
- Click "Create New Template"
- Select the template category (e.g., Marketing, Utility, Authentication)
- Add your template components (header, body, footer, buttons)
- Preview your template
- Submit for approval
Template Categories
WhatsApp requires templates to be categorized based on their purpose:
- Utility: Transactional updates, account notifications
- Marketing: Promotional content, offers, announcements
- Authentication: OTPs, verification codes
Template Approval Process
All WhatsApp message templates must be approved by WhatsApp before they can be used. The approval process typically takes 24-48 hours.
Templates are reviewed for compliance with WhatsApp's Business Policy and Commerce Policy. Common reasons for rejection include:
- Prohibited content (gambling, adult content, etc.)
- Misleading or deceptive content
- Poor grammar or spelling errors
- Incorrect template category
- Missing or incorrect variable formatting
Common Rejection Reasons
Best Practices
Follow these best practices to increase the likelihood of template approval and improve message effectiveness:
- Keep messages clear, concise, and to the point
- Use proper grammar and spelling
- Choose the correct template category
- Include only necessary variables
- Provide clear context in your messages
- Avoid excessive capitalization or punctuation
- Test your templates with different variable values
Template Examples
Here are some examples of effective WhatsApp message templates for different use cases:
Order Confirmation
Header:
Order Confirmation
Body:
Hello {{1}},
Thank you for your order! Your order #{{2}} has been confirmed and is being processed.
Order Total: {{3}}
Estimated Delivery: {{4}}
Footer:
Thank you for shopping with us!
Buttons:
View Order (URL), Track Package (URL)
Appointment Reminder
Header:
Appointment Reminder
Body:
Hello {{1}},
This is a reminder that you have an appointment scheduled for {{2}} at {{3}}.
Location: {{4}}
Need to reschedule? Please let us know at least 24 hours in advance.
Footer:
We look forward to seeing you!
Buttons:
Confirm (Quick Reply), Reschedule (Quick Reply)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does template approval take?
Template approval typically takes 24-48 hours, but can sometimes take longer during busy periods.
Can I edit a template after it's approved?
No, approved templates cannot be edited. If you need to make changes, you'll need to create a new template and submit it for approval.
How many templates can I create?
There is no limit to the number of templates you can create, but each template must be approved before use.
What happens if my template is rejected?
If your template is rejected, you'll receive a notification with the reason for rejection. You can then revise your template and resubmit it for approval.
Can I use emojis in my templates?
Yes, you can use emojis in your templates, but use them sparingly and appropriately.