Nigeria is reported to have about 51 million active WhatsApp users. In other words, about one in four active mobile lines are engaged on the messaging app. If you’re knowledgeable about various ways to grow your business with WhatsApp, you’ll probably reach a much larger audience than most.
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In this article, we’re discussing 5 unique approaches to doing just that. Hopefully, the tips we’ll share here will help you make the most of this mobile application. Here they are:
Create a Highly Personalised Sales Funnel with Broadcasts
WhatsApp broadcasts offer a more direct, more personal way to reach your customers. You can segment your audience (e.g. returning buyers, potential clients, wholesale customers) and send targeted promotions, product updates, or exclusive deals.
You may proceed with this by taking these steps:
- Creating separate contact lists for different customer types
- Sending value-packed messages: e.g. “Hi, Chioma, we have new Ankara fabrics you might love! See photos below.”
- Include clear Calls to Action (CTAs), e.g. “Reply ‘BUY’ to place an order”.
Provide Instant Customer Support and Build Trust
Customers value fast and personal service. WhatsApp gives you a direct, informal channel to handle questions and take orders, especially for customers who aren’t comfortable with email or websites.
For example,
A fashion brand can respond to sizing inquiries instantly.
A POS operator can use it to troubleshoot issues with card payments.
You can set quick replies for frequently asked questions (FAQs) like delivery time, payment information, or return policy.
Share Status Updates Like a Mini Billboard
Think of your WhatsApp status as your free 24-hour digital billboard. It’s an underused feature that can drive real engagement if used creatively.
Things you can post as updates include behind-the-scenes of your work or packaging process, new arrivals or restock alerts, customer reviews or testimonials, and limited-time discounts or flash sales.
You should post consistently, but not too much. Also, use eye-catching visuals or short videos. And, always add your phone number or payment link in the description for quick action.
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Use WhatsApp Groups to Build a Loyal Community
Most Nigerians are highly social and community-driven. So, creating a WhatsApp channel for your customers or students can build loyalty, engagement, and trust, especially for knowledge-based or niche products.
Here are a couple of ideas:
A real estate agent can run a “Property Investment Club” group.
A fitness coach can host a “30-Day Challenge” with daily tips and motivation.
You might want to set clear rules to avoid spam. Share value consistently, and mix business with tips and encouragement, as well as light-hearted and fun material.
Integrate WhatsApp with Payment and Delivery Solutions
You could close more sales if you made it easy for your customers to pay for and receive products. Making these things happen right within a WhatsApp conversation certainly simplifies the process.
For example, you may use Flutterwave, Paystack, or Moniepoint links to collect payments. Add to this a partnership with local delivery services (GIG or Kwik), and send real-time updates via WhatsApp.
To make this work effectively, you should integrate the elements just mentioned into a broader checkout flow. Here’s what that would look like:
You upload a product photo. Customers see it and are interested in the product. They request and use the payment link to pay for it. Payment is confirmed automatically. You arrange delivery. When the product is shipped, you request feedback from customers.
All of these things can be done on WhatsApp.
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Final Words
The 5 ways to grow your business in WhatsApp that we have shared here are effective. They have been utilised by several successful small businesses to varying degrees, and have helped these businesses grow patronage and revenue. You should consider implementing them if you would like to enjoy the benefits that they can deliver.
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