WhatsApp intro message template
Start a friendly, low-pressure conversation on WhatsApp with a contact who has opted in.
- Multi-channel
Hi {{first_name}}, this is {{your_name}} from {{company_name}}. You signed up to hear from us about {{topic}} — thanks for that.
Quick one: we help {{role}} teams {{short_outcome}}. Would a short overview be useful, or is there a specific question I can answer first?
(You can reply anytime, or let me know if you'd prefer email instead.)Replace the {{merge_tags}}with the recipient’s details before sending. In Autocloz, these fields fill in automatically from each lead’s record.
When to use it
Use WhatsApp for opted-in contacts in markets where it's a primary business channel. It's conversational by nature, so lead with a question, not a pitch.
Why it works
The structural reasons this message earns replies.
Reminding the contact they opted in ("you signed up") frames the message as expected, not intrusive.
Asking whether they want an overview or have a question invites a two-way conversation, which WhatsApp rewards.
Offering an email alternative respects channel preference and keeps the relationship comfortable.
How to personalize it
A template only works once it sounds like it was written for one person. Do these before you send.
Only message contacts who opted in via WhatsApp; cold WhatsApp outreach breaks platform policy and trust.
Match the conversational tone of the channel — overly formal WhatsApp messages feel out of place.
Reference the specific topic they opted in for so the first message is obviously relevant.
Variations worth testing
Event opt-in version
For contacts who scanned a QR code or ticked a WhatsApp box at an event. Names the event so the message is placed instantly.
Hi {{first_name}}, {{your_name}} from {{company_name}}. We met at {{event_name}} and you asked us to send {{promised_item}} here. Here it is: {{link}}
Any questions, just reply.Choice-button version
Built for an approved template with quick-reply buttons, so the contact can answer with one tap.
Hi {{first_name}}, thanks for signing up for updates on {{topic}} from {{company_name}}. What would help most right now?
[Short overview] [Talk to someone] [Email me instead]What the follow-up sequence looks like
- Day 0, WhatsApp: Approved template message
- Day 0, WhatsApp: Free-form replies in 24h
- Day 2, Email: Email summary if no reply
- Day 5, Call: Call only if they asked
On WhatsApp the first business-initiated message must be an approved template, and free-form conversation opens only once the contact replies. If they do not, move to email rather than sending a second template straight away. Our WhatsApp for B2B sales guide covers where the channel fits.
Deliverability and compliance notes
Meta's WhatsApp Business rules require opt-in before you message someone, a clear business identity on the account and an easy way to opt out. Messages outside the 24-hour customer-service window must use pre-approved templates, and Meta bills for most template categories. The WhatsApp Business API entry explains the pieces.
Treat a 'stop' or 'no more messages' reply as an opt-out for every channel, and keep evidence of how and when each contact opted in. In markets with strong data-protection rules, a pre-ticked box is not valid consent.
General information, not legal advice. Check the rules that apply where your recipients are.
How to run it in Autocloz
Submit the template for approval through your connected WhatsApp Business account, then add a whatsapp_template step that uses it. Once the contact replies, the conversation continues from the inbox as ordinary messages inside the service window.
A STOP reply puts the number on the do-not-contact list across channels, and the consent ledger records it. The WhatsApp features page covers connecting a number.
Settle the wording before you submit it. Meta reviews every template against the category you pick, a promotional message filed as a utility template is a common reason for rejection, and changing an approved template sends it back for review. Keep one short template per use case rather than one long template that tries to cover several.
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View templateFrequently asked
Can I send cold messages on WhatsApp for business?
Generally no. WhatsApp Business policy requires opt-in before you message a contact, and template messages must be pre-approved. Use it for opted-in leads, not cold prospecting.
How is WhatsApp outreach different from SMS?
WhatsApp is more conversational and expects two-way dialogue, plus it requires opt-in and approved templates for the first message. SMS can feel more transactional. Match your tone to the channel.
Should the first WhatsApp message include a link?
Keep the first message link-light and conversational. Once the contact replies and the conversation is open, sharing a relevant link or document feels natural rather than spammy.
Send templates like this at scale — start free
Personalize with merge tags, sequence across email, calling, LinkedIn, SMS and WhatsApp, and track every reply — on a free-forever CRM for 5 users, unlimited on paid.