To connect WhatsApp as a communication channel, you need to have a WhatsApp Business account.
This means that if you want to use WhatsApp for business purposes, you need to create a dedicated business account on WhatsApp. A regular WhatsApp account, created for personal use, will not be suitable for communicating with customers or promoting your business through this platform.
With a WhatsApp Business account, you can access additional features and tools that are not available in a regular account, such as automated messages, quick replies, and the ability to create a business profile. These features are designed to make it easier to communicate effectively with your customers and improve the efficiency of your business.
Therefore, if you want to use WhatsApp as a communication channel for your business, you need to create a WhatsApp Business account.
Understanding the Differences Between WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business Accounts
When using WhatsApp for business purposes, it's essential to understand the distinctions between a regular WhatsApp account and a WhatsApp Business account. Failing to do so can result in restrictions and limitations that could hinder your communication with customers.
A WhatsApp Business account is specifically designed for businesses and provides additional features such as automated messages, quick replies, and the ability to create a business profile. These features are designed to facilitate more efficient communication with customers.
However, it's important to note that there are some restrictions when using a WhatsApp Business account, such as not being allowed to send promotional messages to customers who have not opted in to receive them. Also, businesses are not permitted to send mass or automated messages that do not contain relevant information or support requests from customers.
Using the same phone number for both WhatsApp Business API and the WhatsApp mobile/desktop app is not possible. This is because WhatsApp requires each phone number to be associated with only one account at a time to ensure the privacy and security of user information.
Therefore, to use WhatsApp Business, a separate phone number that can receive SMS or voice calls for verification purposes is necessary. It can be a landline or mobile number, but it must not be associated with any other WhatsApp account.
Using a separate phone number for your WhatsApp Business account ensures that your business communications remain distinct from your personal conversations and that your account complies with WhatsApp's guidelines.