How do you build a strong template?
Effective WhatsApp templates follow this structure:
- 1Opening (1 sentence): Grab attention, a personal note
- 2Core (2-3 sentences): What is the message/offer?
- 3Call to action (1 sentence): What should the reader do?
- 4Button(s): Make it easy to take action
Keep it short (max 150 words), use line breaks for readability, and test variations.
WhatsApp Sales Process
Templates 1-5: Promotions and offers
Template 1 - Flash Sale: Today only: 30% off everything! Use code FLASH30 at checkout. Valid until midnight. [Shop now]
Template 2 - VIP Discount: Hi {{name}}! As a loyal customer you get 15% extra off. Your personal code: VIP15. [Use my discount]
Template 3 - Seasonal offer: Spring has arrived! Discover our new collection at introductory prices. This weekend only. [View collection]
Template 4 - Bundle discount: Combine and save! Buy 2 products, get 25% off your entire order. [Build your bundle]
Template 5 - Last chance: Your discount expires tomorrow! Use VIP20 for 20% off. Last chance! [Order now]
Example: Campaign message
A personalised marketing campaign
Hey! Just for you: 25% off our new collection. This weekend only!
Check out the highlights:
Oh nice! Do you have dresses in size M too?
Absolutely! We have 12 dresses in size M. Here are my top 3 picks for you:
Templates 6-10: Reactivation and win-back
Template 6 - We miss you: Hi {{name}}, we've missed you! As a welcome-back gift: free shipping on your next order. Code: WELCOMEBACK [Shop now]
Template 7 - New since your visit: A lot has changed! Since your last visit we've added 50+ new products. [Discover what's new]
Template 8 - Asking for feedback: Hi {{name}}, we noticed you no longer order. May we ask why? [Products not right] [Too expensive] [Other]
Template 9 - Personal offer: Hi {{name}}, especially for you: 25% off {{category}}. Valid this week. [View the offer]
Template 10 - Final message: This is your last message from us. Would you like to keep receiving our updates? [Yes, please!] [No, unsubscribe]
Templates 11-15: Events, reviews and reminders
Template 11 - Event invitation: You're invited! {{event_name}} on {{date}}. {{time}} | {{location}}. Limited spots. [Sign up] [More info]
Template 12 - Webinar reminder: Tomorrow is the day! Webinar: {{title}}. {{date}} at {{time}}. [Add to calendar]
Template 13 - Review request: Hi {{name}}, your order was delivered {{days}} days ago. How do you like it? Your opinion helps other customers! [Write a review] [Remind me later]
Template 14 - Appointment reminder: Reminder: your appointment tomorrow at {{time}} at {{location}}. [Confirm] [Reschedule] [Cancel]
Template 15 - Back in stock: Good news! {{product}} is back in stock. You showed interest, order quickly, limited stock! [Order now]
“Since we started using WhatsApp for sales, our conversion has risen by 45%. Customers appreciate the fast, personal approach.”
Personalisation tips
Use personalisation wisely:
- Do:
- Use the first name in the greeting
- Reference previous purchases
- Location-relevant offers
- Segment-specific content
- Don't:
- Over-the-top personalisation ("We saw that you yesterday...")
- Fake urgency ("Just for you" to 10,000 people)
- Too many exclamation marks
- Emoji overload
Template approval tips
WhatsApp has to approve templates. Improve your chances by not using ALL CAPS, no misleading claims or clickbait, a clear sender identity, and formatting variables correctly with {{double braces}}. Approval usually takes 24-48 hours, so plan ahead.
Migration checklist
Create templates with CommuniQate
CommuniQate offers a template builder with examples and best practices. From creation to approval and sending, all in one platform.
Frequently asked questions
How many templates can I create?
There is no limit to the number of templates. Create variations for A/B testing and different audiences.
Can I use emoji in templates?
Yes, emoji are allowed and often boost engagement. Use them sparingly and relevantly.
What if my template gets rejected?
You get a reason from WhatsApp. Adjust and resubmit. It often comes down to wording or an unclear CTA.
Can I change templates after approval?
No, changes require a new template and new approval. Create small variations as separate templates.
Maico Gieteling
Founder of CommuniQate and WhatsApp expert
Expert in business WhatsApp communication and customer contact strategies, with years of experience helping businesses with their digital customer communication.