WhatsApp has become an essential communication tool for many businesses to connect with customers. To access certain business features on WhatsApp like business profiles, some companies may need to get their business verified by WhatsApp.
What is WhatsApp business verification?
WhatsApp business verification is a process where WhatsApp confirms that a phone number is associated with a legitimate business. This verification process allows businesses to unlock certain features in WhatsApp Business that can help manage conversations with customers more efficiently.
Once a business is verified on WhatsApp, they get access to the following features:
- Business profile – This allows businesses to add more information like email, address, website etc. that customers can see.
- Greetings messages – Pre-written greetings that customers receive when initiating a chat.
- Quick replies – Pre-written messages that can be sent to frequently asked questions.
- Labels – Tools to organize different types of conversations.
- Statistics – Insights on messages delivered, read etc.
Why get WhatsApp business verification?
Here are some of the key reasons businesses should consider getting verified on WhatsApp:
- Increased visibility and trust – The green verified badge on your business profile shows customers that WhatsApp has confirmed your legitimacy.
- Improved conversation management – With features like greetings, labels and quick replies, businesses can streamline customer interactions.
- Analytics – The statistics and reporting available after verification help understand engagement and plan better.
- Streamlined messaging – Verified businesses can assign chats to multiple agents allowing for efficient collaboration.
How to get verified on WhatsApp for business
Here are the key steps businesses need to follow to get verified on WhatsApp:
- Use a business phone number – You need an official business phone number that you can receive verification codes on. Virtual numbers typically don’t work.
- Download WhatsApp Business – Download the WhatsApp Business app on your device using the business number. This is required for verification.
- Fill business profile info – In the Business Settings section, completely fill out details like business name, address, description, email etc.
- Tap on Get Verified – Go into Business Settings and tap on the Get Verified option. This will initiate the verification process.
- Select verification method – WhatsApp will give you the option to get verified via SMS or voice call. Choose your preferred method.
- Enter verification code – WhatsApp will send a 6 digit verification code. Enter this code when prompted to complete verification.
It can take up to 7 days for WhatsApp to review your information and verify your business. You may need to provide additional business documentation if asked during the review process.
Troubleshooting WhatsApp business verification
Some common issues faced during WhatsApp business verification and how to resolve them:
Problem: Virtual phone numbers don’t work
WhatsApp requires a real active business phone number for verification. Virtual, VoIP or landline numbers usually don’t work. Make sure to use a real mobile number.
Problem: Verification code not received
If you are not receiving the SMS or voice call with the verification code, first make sure to use the latest version of WhatsApp Business. Also confirm the country code selected matches your business phone number.
Network issues may also block the verification code. Trying switching networks or using Wi-Fi if on mobile data. You can also request for the code to be resent.
Problem: Verification rejected
WhatsApp thoroughly reviews a business before verifying it. Make sure all your business profile information is accurate. Avoid using stock images or other misleading details.
Having a business email, website and social media presence can help establish legitimacy during the review process. You may need to provide additional documentation like business registration papers if asked.
What happens after WhatsApp business verification?
Once your WhatsApp business account is successfully verified, you will see a green checkmark on your business profile. You now have access to the full suite of WhatsApp Business features.
With verification, you can add important information to your business profile like your email, store addresses, business hours etc. This provides helpful context to customers interacting with your business.
Tools like greetings messages, quick replies and labels will help streamline your conversations with customers at scale. The insights available through the statistics feature will help you identify trends and optimize your WhatsApp communication strategy.
Overall, business verification takes your WhatsApp presence to the next level with more professionalism and efficiency. Invest time into setting up your verified WhatsApp business account to maximize its benefits for customer engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a business verification code for WhatsApp?
The verification code is required by WhatsApp to confirm that your phone number belongs to a legitimate business. This verification unlocks exclusive business tools on WhatsApp like business profiles, analytics, greetings messages and more.
How long does WhatsApp business verification take?
It can take up to 7 days for WhatsApp to review your documents and information before approving business verification. You may be asked for additional documents if more confirmation is needed.
Can I get verified on my personal WhatsApp number?
No, WhatsApp only provides business verification on true business numbers and accounts. Your personal WhatsApp account cannot be upgraded to a business account.
Is business verification free on WhatsApp?
Yes, WhatsApp does not charge any fee for verifying businesses on its platform. The verification process is free but required to access exclusive business tools.
Can I use a VoIP number for WhatsApp business verification?
WhatsApp business verification typically does not work with VoIP, virtual or landline numbers. You need an actual mobile number that is used for your business communications.
Conclusion
Verifying your business on WhatsApp is important to get access to exclusive tools that can help manage customer interactions more efficiently. Make sure to use an accurate mobile business number and provide complete profile information during the verification process.
This verification can take some time but is worthwhile for establishing legitimacy and streamlining conversations at scale. With WhatsApp becoming a key customer engagement channel, investing in business verification can provide great returns by turning it into an extension of your overall customer service infrastructure.