Table of contents
- What is WhatsApp Marketing?
- Benefits of WhatsApp Marketing for Businesses
- How to Set Up WhatsApp Marketing in 2025 (Step-by-Step)
- WhatsApp Marketing Strategies That Work (with Examples)
- WhatsApp Marketing Best Practices
- WhatsApp Marketing Tools in 2025
- Real Success Stories from India
- Key Takeaways
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In 2025, WhatsApp marketing has emerged as one of the most powerful tools for businesses in India. With over 700 million active users in India alone, WhatsApp offers a direct, personal, and cost-effective channel to reach customers, boost sales, and build long-term brand loyalty.
Whether you run a small business or a growing startup, this guide will walk you through how to use WhatsApp marketing effectively, along with real examples, tips, and strategies tailored for Indian businesses.
What is WhatsApp Marketing?

WhatsApp marketing is the practice of using WhatsApp to promote your business, engage customers, and drive sales. It includes sending:
- Promotional messages
- Product updates
- Customer service replies
- Abandoned cart reminders
- Order confirmations
- Feedback requests
There are two main ways to do WhatsApp marketing:
- WhatsApp Business App – Best for small businesses with a limited customer base.
- WhatsApp Business API – Ideal for medium to large businesses needing automation, CRM, and integration.
Benefits of WhatsApp Marketing for Businesses
Here are the top reasons why WhatsApp marketing works so well:
- Higher Open Rates: Messages on WhatsApp are opened within 5 minutes of receipt.
- Direct and Personal: Unlike email or social media, WhatsApp feels personal and trustworthy.
- Multi-format Support: Send images, videos, PDFs, links, and even catalogues.
- Cost-Effective: Free to use for most basic needs; API cost is scalable.
- Better Customer Experience: Real-time replies build trust and satisfaction.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want to start an online business but have too many doubts, connect with an online business expert from Boss Wallah for guidance – https://bw1.in/1116
How to Set Up WhatsApp Marketing in 2025 (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Download & Set Up WhatsApp Business
- Download from the Google Play Store or the App Store.
- Register with a business phone number.
- Set up a business profile with:
- Business name
- Logo
- Address
- Working hours
- Website & social media links
- Business name
Step 2: Create a Product Catalogue
- Add images, price, and description for your products/services.
- Helps customers browse directly from the chat window.
Step 3: Use Automated Features
- Quick Replies: Save common messages for faster response.
- Greeting Messages: Welcome new customers automatically.
- Away Messages: Inform customers of your unavailability.
- Labels: Organise chats (New customer, Order placed, Payment pending, etc.)
Step 4: Build Your Contact List
Use ethical ways to collect phone numbers:
- Website signup forms
- Social media ads with WhatsApp CTAs
- QR codes at stores/events
- Offer discounts in exchange for joining your WhatsApp list
Step 5: Start Sending Targeted Messages
- Share offers, new arrivals, testimonials, reviews, how-to videos, etc.
- Don’t spam! Only send messages when they add value.
Step 6: Use WhatsApp Broadcast Lists
- Send messages to up to 256 people at once.
- Personalised yet scalable communication.
Step 7: Upgrade to WhatsApp Business API (Optional)
If your business grows, the API allows:
- Bulk messaging to verified contacts
- Chatbots & automation
- CRM integration (Zoho, Freshdesk, etc.)
- Payment integration (via UPI)
WhatsApp Marketing Strategies That Work (with Examples)

1. Customer Engagement Campaigns
- Example: A bakery in Mumbai sends daily “fresh cake alerts” via WhatsApp to 500+ regular customers. Result: 30% increase in repeat orders.
2. WhatsApp QR Code in Store
- Customers scan the QR code and get special offers via WhatsApp. Works well in salons, restaurants, and retail stores.
3. Order Tracking & Support
- E-commerce stores like Meesho and JioMart use WhatsApp to send delivery updates and provide live support.
4. Abandoned Cart Recovery
- Integrate with Shopify/WordPress to auto-send reminders for incomplete purchases.
5. Lead Generation through Ads
- Run Click-to-WhatsApp Ads on Instagram or Facebook to start conversations directly on WhatsApp.
WhatsApp Marketing Best Practices
- Get user consent before sending marketing messages.
- Always provide an opt-out option.
- Be concise and clear in your messages.
- Avoid mass spamming—use segmentation.
- Don’t over-promote; focus on building a relationship.
WhatsApp Marketing Tools in 2025
- Zoko – Commerce + WhatsApp marketing platform.
- Wati – API-based automation & chatbot solution.
- Interakt – Great for SMBs to manage leads & customer service.
- Yellow.ai – AI chatbot for WhatsApp marketing at scale.
ALSO READ – What is Sales in Marketing? A Clear Definition for Business Success (2025)
Real Success Stories from India
1. Wow! Momo
Used WhatsApp to take orders during lockdown; reported 40% revenue recovery through direct messaging campaigns.
2. Mamaearth
Integrated WhatsApp with its CRM to send offers and product launch updates, leading to a 20% boost in conversions.
3. Nykaa
Sends new product arrivals and personalised offers to segmented user groups via WhatsApp API.
ALSO READ – Is Digital Marketing a Good Career Choice in India? Pros, Cons & Growth Explained
Key Takeaways
- WhatsApp has a 90 %+ open rate, making it more effective than email marketing.
- You can use WhatsApp Business and WhatsApp Business API for different types of marketing needs.
- Features like broadcast lists, catalogues, auto-replies, and quick replies make it easy to automate and personalise communication.
- Great for customer engagement, lead generation, promotions, and customer support.
- Use tools like Chatbots, CRM integrations, and WhatsApp campaigns to scale effectively.
Learn more about social media skills here to unlock new growth opportunities
Need Expert Guidance?
Starting a business can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone! At Boss Wallah, our 2,000+ business experts are ready to provide valuable insights and guidance. Whether you need help with marketing, finance, sourcing, or any other area of your business, our business experts are here to help you succeed
Confused about Which Business to Start?
Want to start your own business but unsure which one to choose? Explore Boss Wallah, where you’ll find 500+ courses by successful business owners, featuring practical, step-by-step guides on starting and growing various businesses. Find your perfect business idea today
Conclusion
WhatsApp marketing is no longer an optional channel—it’s a must-have in your 2025 digital strategy. It offers unmatched open rates, trust, and speed. From solopreneurs to large brands, businesses across India are using it to connect, convert, and retain customers. Start small, stay consistent, and scale up using tools and automation. WhatsApp is where your customers are—meet them there.
Explore more blogs to learn more about Digital skills
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1 . Is WhatsApp marketing legal in India?
- Yes, as long as you have user consent and follow opt-out rules.
2 . Is WhatsApp Business free to use?
- Yes, the basic version is free. API may have charges depending on usage.
3 . How can I get customers on WhatsApp?
- Use website pop-ups, social media CTAs, QR codes, and offer-based opt-ins.
4 . Can I send bulk messages using WhatsApp?
- Yes, via broadcast lists (256 max) or WhatsApp API for larger scale.
5 . Is WhatsApp good for B2B businesses?
- Absolutely! Use it for inquiries, quotes, after-sales support, etc.
6 . How is WhatsApp better than email marketing?
- WhatsApp has over 90% open rates; emails average 20–25%.
7 . What type of content works best on WhatsApp?
- Short videos, product images, offers, reviews, how-tos, and quick tips.
8 . Can I run ads that lead to WhatsApp?
- Yes! Use Facebook/Instagram “Click-to-WhatsApp” ads.
9 . Are WhatsApp messages end-to-end encrypted?
- Yes. All messages are secure and private.
10 . What is the cost of using WhatsApp Business API?
- Depends on the provider (Zoko, Wati, etc.) and the number of messages sent.