How to Use WhatsApp Ads to Capture Leads
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 5:56 am
WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging platforms worldwide, with over 2 billion active users. For businesses, it offers a unique opportunity to connect with customers directly through personal, instant communication. Leveraging WhatsApp Ads is an effective way to capture leads by driving prospects from social media or websites directly into WhatsApp chats, where personalized engagement can convert them into customers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use WhatsApp Ads to capture leads effectively.
1. Set Up a WhatsApp Business Account
Before running WhatsApp Ads, you need a WhatsApp Business whatsapp lead account linked to your phone number. The business account allows you to create a professional profile, display your business info, and use tools like quick replies and automated messages, which are essential for managing leads efficiently once they click on your ad.
2. Create a Facebook or Instagram Ad Campaign with WhatsApp Click-to-Chat
WhatsApp Ads are created through Facebook Ads Manager, since Facebook owns WhatsApp. Choose the campaign objective “Messages,” which allows you to create ads that open a WhatsApp chat when users click on them. You can run these ads on Facebook, Instagram, or Messenger, targeting your ideal audience based on demographics, interests, behaviors, and location.
3. Design Engaging Ad Creative
Your ad creative—images, videos, and copy—should be compelling and relevant to your target audience. Use clear, attractive visuals that highlight your product or service benefits. The copy should include a strong call-to-action (CTA) encouraging users to start a conversation, such as “Chat with us on WhatsApp for a free consultation” or “Message now for an exclusive offer.”
4. Optimize Your Click-to-WhatsApp Button
When users click your ad, they will be directed to a WhatsApp chat with your business. You can pre-fill a greeting message in the chat to make it easier for leads to initiate conversation. For example, “Hi, I’m interested in learning more about your services.” This small step helps reduce friction and encourages users to engage immediately.
5. Target the Right Audience
Effective targeting is crucial for lead generation. Use Facebook’s powerful targeting options to reach people who are most likely to be interested in your offering. Narrow your audience by location, age, gender, interests, and behaviors to maximize ad relevance and minimize wasted budget.
1. Set Up a WhatsApp Business Account
Before running WhatsApp Ads, you need a WhatsApp Business whatsapp lead account linked to your phone number. The business account allows you to create a professional profile, display your business info, and use tools like quick replies and automated messages, which are essential for managing leads efficiently once they click on your ad.
2. Create a Facebook or Instagram Ad Campaign with WhatsApp Click-to-Chat
WhatsApp Ads are created through Facebook Ads Manager, since Facebook owns WhatsApp. Choose the campaign objective “Messages,” which allows you to create ads that open a WhatsApp chat when users click on them. You can run these ads on Facebook, Instagram, or Messenger, targeting your ideal audience based on demographics, interests, behaviors, and location.
3. Design Engaging Ad Creative
Your ad creative—images, videos, and copy—should be compelling and relevant to your target audience. Use clear, attractive visuals that highlight your product or service benefits. The copy should include a strong call-to-action (CTA) encouraging users to start a conversation, such as “Chat with us on WhatsApp for a free consultation” or “Message now for an exclusive offer.”
4. Optimize Your Click-to-WhatsApp Button
When users click your ad, they will be directed to a WhatsApp chat with your business. You can pre-fill a greeting message in the chat to make it easier for leads to initiate conversation. For example, “Hi, I’m interested in learning more about your services.” This small step helps reduce friction and encourages users to engage immediately.
5. Target the Right Audience
Effective targeting is crucial for lead generation. Use Facebook’s powerful targeting options to reach people who are most likely to be interested in your offering. Narrow your audience by location, age, gender, interests, and behaviors to maximize ad relevance and minimize wasted budget.