How to Use Custom Variables to Create WhatsApp Templates in HighLevel

If you’re looking to enhance your customer interactions using WhatsApp within the HighLevel platform, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through creating templates, setting up triggers and actions, and utilizing custom variables to maximize the potential of your WhatsApp integration.

Getting Started with WhatsApp Integration

First, ensure that your WhatsApp integration is enabled in HighLevel. This involves linking your WhatsApp to your Facebook Business account and configuring a number purchased through HighLevel. The platform provides a guided setup process, making it straightforward to get everything connected.

Creating WhatsApp Templates

Templates are a crucial part of automating your WhatsApp messages. Here’s how to create one:

  1. Navigate to Settings: Go to the bottom left of your HighLevel dashboard and select the WhatsApp option.
  2. Create a New Template: Click on ‘Create New Template’. This opens a form where you can start defining your message template.
  3. Template Details:
    • Template Name: This is for your internal reference.
    • Category: Choose between ‘Utility’ and ‘Marketing’. For this example, we select ‘Marketing’.
    • Language: Set the language for your template, e.g., English.
  4. Design the Template:
    • Header: Add a header, which acts like a title. For instance, “This is a header”.
    • Custom Variables: Utilize custom variables to personalize messages. For example, add the contact’s first name by inserting {{contact.firstName}}. The preview will show “This is a header for Martin” if the contact’s first name is Martin.
    • Body Text: Enter the main message content. Include custom variables as needed, like “This is the body text from {{account.name}}”.
    • Footer: Optionally, add a footer text for additional information.
  5. Save the Template: Once satisfied with your template, click ‘Create’. This template is now ready to use in your automated workflows.

Sending WhatsApp Messages

You can send WhatsApp messages directly from the Contacts section:

  1. Select a Contact: Choose the contact you wish to message.
  2. Send a Message: Click on the WhatsApp icon. You can either type a message directly or select a pre-made template.
  3. Automation: For automated messaging, use the Automation section.

Automating WhatsApp Messages

Automation in HighLevel allows you to set triggers and actions for sending WhatsApp messages:

  1. Create an Automation:
    • Go to the Automation section and start a new workflow.
    • Add a trigger. For example, select ‘Customer Replied’ with the reply channel as WhatsApp.
  2. Define Actions:
    • Tagging: Add a tag such as ‘Active WhatsApp User’.
    • Wait Period: Insert a delay (e.g., 30 seconds) to avoid immediate responses which might seem robotic.
    • Send Message: Choose to send a WhatsApp message. You can use a manual text or select a template. For manual messages, include custom variables like “Hi {{contact.firstName}}, hope you’re fine”.
  3. Publish the Automation: Once all steps are defined, click ‘Publish’ to activate the automation.

Exploring Possibilities

HighLevel’s integration with WhatsApp offers endless automation possibilities. Whether you’re sending personalized greetings, follow-ups, or marketing messages, you can tailor the workflows to fit your needs perfectly. The use of custom variables ensures each message feels personal and relevant, significantly improving customer engagement.

Conclusion

Integrating WhatsApp with HighLevel not only streamlines your communication but also personalizes your outreach, making customer interactions more efficient and effective. By mastering templates, triggers, and actions, you can automate processes that save time and enhance your marketing efforts. So dive in, experiment with different setups, and enjoy the benefits of this powerful integration.