ICYMI: WhatsApp bots are all the hype now, which makes a lot of sense since it is one of the most used messaging apps in the world, and it’s quite understandable why you would be interested in building one.
If you’re not convinced yet, here’s a recap of why you should build a WhatsApp bot:
Read Why Your Business Needs A WhatsApp Bot
Now that you’re interested, read on for your simple guide to build a WhatsApp bot through WideBot’s platform.
How to build a WhatsApp bot through the WideBot platform
What you will need:
- ID for a verified Facebook Business account. (Learn how you can verify your business here)
- A WhatsApp Business number/account (you cannot create a WhatsApp bot on a personal number, it has to be a Business number.)
The steps:
1. Fill our form
First things first, notify us through this form with all of your chatbot needs and contact information so that we could know you a little bit better.
2. Schedule a call with us
Once you fill the form, we will contact you to schedule a quick call. This will help us understand your needs better and how we can help you and your business thrive.
3. Set up your payment method.
You will need to set up your payment method before we can start working on sending your WhatsApp API request; however, you will not be charged one penny until your number starts working as a WhatsApp Business number.
This step also includes signing a contract that explains the process thoroughly and guarantees your rights.
4. Wait until your request is validated.
In order to provide you with your WhatsApp solution, we have to review your request for it and make sure it matches Facebook policies before we can proceed, and based on several factors, your request may or may not be accepted.
Your request can be rejected for various reasons, some of which could be related to your name or your number; however, nothing we can’t fix. If your request is rejected, we will inform you and work with you on resolving it and then getting it accepted.
After your request is accepted, the next step will be verification.
5. Verification
Once your number is verified through SMS, you should know that it will only be available through WideBot’s API.
Note: If you try to connect your WhatsApp Business number to another program or API, you will immediately lose access to your number and will not be able to answer messages through the number again nor connect it to another app.
6. Build your bot as you normally would (or simply connect it)
If you have already built your chatbot, you can simply connect it to WhatsApp.
If you haven’t yet, go on our platform and start building your chatbot. Our platform uses a simple drag-and-drop interface that will make your chatbot building experience easier than ever. You will connect your chatbot to your business’ Facebook page.
7. Connect your bot to the WhatsApp number
Once you’re done building your chatbot, get back to us and provide us with your Bot ID, which you can find in the URL once you click on the bot as per the screenshot below.
We will link your chatbot to the WhatsApp number. We’re working on making the connection as simple as clicking on a button.
8. Ta-Da!
Once the chatbot you build is linked to the WhatsApp number, it will automatically be working on both Messenger and WhatsApp.
If you want your chatbot to work for WhatsApp only, you can clone your bot and create it for WhatsApp only.
Connecting with your customers through the app they use the most has never been easier.
