Tag: Whatsapp

WhatsApp Business Number: How To Get A Virtual Number For WhatsApp Business

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WhatsApp is one of the most widely used instant messaging apps with over 2 billion users worldwide [1]. 68% of these users report that WhatsApp Business is the easiest way to contact a company [2]. This means your current and potential customers’ primary messaging channel is likely WhatsApp and therefore WhatsApp Business provides a great opportunity to enhance your customer experience. 

Launched in 2018, it has increasingly gained popularity amongst SMEs as a simple and cost effective customer communications channel. The ability for businesses to quickly connect with their consumers in a more personal and engaging way is what sets WhatsApp Business apart from traditional customer service channels such as email. 

In this article, we’ll break down everything you’ll need to set up WhatsApp Business and get started on elevating your customer service experience.

How it works:

WhatsApp Business is a free to download app which looks and works the same as WhatsApp Messenger except with added business features such as: business profiles, automated responses, quick replies and access to analytic data. Customers can contact a company by messaging the company’s WhatsApp Business account from their personal WhatsApp messenger. 

 

Things to know before set up:

We’d recommend using WhatsApp business with a virtual number. Even though there’s an option to migrate your personal WhatsApp number to the business platform, we don’t recommend doing this to protect your privacy. Opting for this also means you won’t be able to move those chats back to your personal account should you wish to. 

In order to set up WhatsApp Business, you’ll need a working phone number that you can receive calls and texts to. The platform will verify that the number is in operation by sending a one-time-passcode (OTP). Don’t worry, to get a second phone number you don’t need a new sim or additional handset… you can get a virtual phone number!

 

What is a virtual number: 

Virtual numbers are phone numbers that don’t operate via traditional phone lines such as those provided by phone contract providers. Instead, they work by facilitating calls and texts over a wifi/data connection meaning virtual numbers can be used on any device capable of connecting to the internet. This will allow you to have an additional working number on your phone without needing a different sim card.

However, it’s important to note that WhatsApp often won’t work with a VoIP virtual number. This is because Meta want to prevent WhatsApp Business being used to spam users and are banning the use of VoIP numbers to sign up. So even if your virtual number works now, there’s a chance it won’t in the future. The best approach is to get a virtual number issued by a company providing real operating phone numbers. 

 

How to get a virtual number:

There are currently various virtual number providers on the market offering packages of all shapes and sizes. Choosing your ideal provider may depend on your business needs. We’d recommend getting an affordable, simple and secure service like Devyce Starter when you first set up your WhatsApp Business account. 

Devyce Starter gives you a virtual number through the Devyce app that you can get the OTP for your WhatsApp business account verification sent to. It only costs £3.99 a month (without VAT), and there’s no long-term commitment. Stay as long as you like! Devyce also offers free inbound calling and messaging as well as voicemail. If you wish to, you can also upgrade for outbound calling, which means you can use your number throughout your business.

The best part? Devyce has an exclusive deal with a UK mobile network. The numbers that Devyce issues are real UK mobile phone numbers meaning they’re much less likely to be cut off by WhatsApp in the future. 

To get your Devyce number, first head to our sign up page and purchase the Devyce Starter plan. You’ll then be instantly set up with an account which you can use to sign in on the Devyce app (downloadable from your app store). Once your app is up and running, you’ll be able to use the number to set up WhatsApp Business.

With just a few simple steps, we make it easy for you to start boosting your business’ customer experience. Get your virtual number now with Devyce Starter! 

References: 

[1] https://backlinko.com/whatsapp-users

[2] https://www.tyntec.com/blog/four-advantages-using-whatsapp-business-api#:~:text=Research%20shows%20customers%20prefer%20messaging%20businesses%20via%20WhatsApp,is%20the%20easiest%20method%20for%20contacting%20a%20company

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