How to Use Interactive Messages on WhatsApp (Buttons & Lists)

Static text messages are a thing of the past. To truly capture attention and drive action on WhatsApp, you need to make your conversations interactive. Interactive messages, featuring clickable buttons and lists, transform a one-way broadcast into a two-way dialogue, simplifying the user experience and boosting your conversion rates.

What Are Interactive Messages?

These are special message types available through the WhatsApp Business API that allow you to include interactive elements:

• Quick Reply Buttons: These are up to three buttons that allow users to respond to your message with a single tap, without having to type. Perfect for simple responses like "Yes/No," confirming an appointment, or choosing a category.
• Call-to-Action (CTA) Buttons: These allow you to add a button that either directs a user to a website or triggers a phone call when clicked. You can have one of each in a single message.
• List Messages: If you have more than three options, a list message is ideal. It presents users with a menu of up to 10 choices. This is great for product selection, FAQ menus, or choosing a store location.

Why Use Interactive Messages?

The benefits are significant. They are more user-friendly, reduce typos, and have a much higher response rate compared to text-based questions. They guide the user through a conversation, making it easier for them to get the information they need or to complete a desired action.

Example Use Cases

• Appointment Booking: Use quick reply buttons for "Confirm," "Reschedule," or "Cancel."
• Customer Feedback: Ask a question and use buttons for "Excellent," "Good," or "Bad."
• Sales & Promotions: Announce a sale and use a CTA button that links directly to the sale page on your website.
• FAQ Bots: Use a list message to present your main FAQ categories, allowing users to navigate to the answers they need easily.

By incorporating interactive messages into your WhatsApp strategy, you create a more dynamic, efficient, and engaging experience for your customers, leading to higher satisfaction and better business outcomes.