Before you start
WhatsApp Business is a separate free app. You can use a new number for the business, or move your current number to the business app. Choose a number your customers can keep using for years.
1. Set up your business profile
Add your business name, logo, category, a short description, your address or area, opening hours, and your email or website. This is what customers see when they tap your name.
2. Add a catalogue
Add your products or services with a photo, a price and a short description. Customers can browse it in the chat, and you can send the catalogue link to anyone who asks "what do you have?"
3. Set up messages that work while you're busy
- Greeting message: sent automatically when someone messages you for the first time, or after 14 days without contact.
- Away message: sent outside your working hours, so customers know when you'll reply.
- Quick replies: saved answers to common questions, like prices, your location and how to pay.
A greeting you can copy: "Hi, thanks for contacting [your business]. Here is our catalogue: [link]. Tell us what you need and we'll reply as soon as we can during business hours."
4. Use labels and your link
Labels such as "New order", "Paid" and "Ready" keep your chats organised. Share your WhatsApp link or QR code on flyers, your Facebook page and your Google profile, so customers can reach you in one tap.
Stay on the right side of POPIA
Only send marketing messages to people who agreed to hear from you, and make it easy for them to opt out. Keep customers' details private.
Do it today
- Download WhatsApp Business and complete your profile.
- Add your top five products or services to the catalogue.
- Set a greeting message and an away message.
- Save quick replies for your three most common questions.
This answer is general information, written by J29 from the questions business owners ask Ask J29 and checked in October 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm on the official site before you pay anything.
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