How to collect WhatsApp opt-in the right way

Before your business starts a conversation with someone on WhatsApp, that person needs to have agreed to receive messages from you. This is called opt-in. It is a requirement of WhatsApp's business policies, and it is also simply good practice: people who asked to hear from you are far more likely to read and reply.

Why opt-in matters

Sending unwanted messages has real consequences. Customers can block or report your business, and WhatsApp watches the quality of the messages each number sends. A number with poor quality can have its messaging limits reduced, or in serious cases be restricted. Collecting opt-in properly protects your ability to reach customers at all.

Where to collect it

You can ask for opt-in wherever customers already interact with you:

• on your website, for example at checkout or when creating an account
• in your app, during sign-up or in notification settings
• in store, with a QR code that opens a chat or a sign-up form
• in a WhatsApp conversation the customer started, by asking whether they would like updates
• on paper or verbal forms, where you record the consent

What to tell customers

A good opt-in is clear about what the customer is agreeing to. Make sure it states:

• your business name
• that the messages will arrive on WhatsApp
• what kind of messages they will receive, such as order updates or promotions

Avoid hiding consent in a long block of terms, or ticking the box for the customer in advance.

Record it

Keep a record of who opted in, when, how and for which kind of messages. In beeoneten, opt-in status is stored on each contact per channel, and campaigns automatically leave out people who have not opted in.

Make opting out easy

Give people a simple way to stop messages, such as a "Stop promotions" button on marketing templates or replying with a keyword. When someone opts out, stop sending them that kind of message straight away. Respecting opt-outs keeps your audience healthy and your number in good standing.

In short

Ask clearly, record the answer, send what people agreed to, and let them leave easily. Those four habits keep your WhatsApp messaging welcome and effective.