You may have already sent email newsletters to engage your audience. But let’s be honest, most emails sit unread or get lost in crowded inboxes. What if you could cut through the noise and connect with your customers instantly, right where they spend most of their time?

That’s precisely what WhatsApp newsletters make possible. You can send product updates, special offers, or restock alerts to your customer’s phones. With open rates far higher than email, WhatsApp helps you stay top-of-mind and get real results. It’s faster, more personal, and built for action.

In this guide, you'll learn how to send a WhatsApp newsletter from start to finish. We'll cover everything from choosing the right platform to writing messages that get read. 

Let’s get into it!

What is a WhatsApp Newsletter?

A WhatsApp newsletter is a broadcast message sent to many subscribers using the WhatsApp Business API. It can include product updates, offers, new arrivals, or any content you'd typically share in an email newsletter, but delivered directly through WhatsApp.

Unlike email, WhatsApp messages appear right in your customer's chat. This gives your updates immediate visibility, drives higher engagement, and increases the chance of a quick response.

It’s a more direct and personal way to stay in touch. No spam filters. No inbox clutter. Clear communication is needed inside an app that your customers already use every day.

To see why more brands switch to WhatsApp, let’s break down how it stacks up against traditional email newsletters.

WhatsApp vs Email Newsletters

Now that you’ve seen the comparison, it’s easy to understand why WhatsApp is gaining traction. 

Benefits of WhatsApp Newsletters

WhatsApp newsletters are more than just another messaging tool. They offer a direct, flexible, and highly effective way to engage your audience.

• Trigger-based automation: Set newsletters to send automatically based on customer behavior, like abandoned carts, recent purchases, or inactivity.
• Time-based scheduling: Deliver updates at the perfect moment by scheduling messages for specific days or times.
• Seamless segmentation: Target different customer groups with tailored newsletters based on their interests or past actions.
• Effortless consistency: Keep your audience engaged regularly without manual effort, ensuring timely communication every time.
• Integrated workflows: Connect with your CRM or e-commerce platform to automate the entire messaging flow from signup to follow-up.

Want to connect your Shopify store to WhatsApp and start selling directly from chat? Try Zoko’s WhatsApp + Shopify Integration and bring your catalog, carts, and customer chats under one roof.

Of course, just using WhatsApp isn’t enough; you must ensure your messages work. 

Crafting Effective WhatsApp Newsletters

To create WhatsApp newsletters that truly resonate, it’s crucial to think about your audience and how best to communicate with them. 

Here are key strategies to help you craft messages that get opened, engage, and convert:

1. Identifying audience needs and expectations

Before sending a message, take the time to understand what your audience wants. What kind of content are they looking for? What problems do they need solved? Use customer feedback, data insights, and behavior analysis to tailor your content to their preferences. When your audience feels understood, they are more likely to engage with your messages.

2. Keeping messages concise

Attention spans are shorter than ever. Keep your messages clear and concise, focusing on one key message per newsletter. Remember, WhatsApp is a fast communication channel. Make it easy for your audience to read and take action immediately.

3. Showcasing brand personality with authenticity

WhatsApp allows for a more casual and personal tone than traditional marketing channels. Use this opportunity to showcase your brand’s unique voice. Whether it’s humorous, friendly, or professional, authenticity makes your messages more relatable and memorable.

4. Encouraging interaction and responding to feedback

A one-way conversation doesn’t work well on WhatsApp. Encourage your subscribers to interact with your messages, whether it’s by clicking a link, replying with feedback, or asking a question. Be sure to respond promptly to maintain engagement and build stronger customer relationships.

5. Personalizing content using subscriber data

Make your newsletters feel more like a one-on-one conversation. Send personalized offers and updates using data like past purchase history, browsing behavior, or location. Personalization helps build a connection with your audience and significantly boosts engagement and conversions.

Want to go beyond basic newsletters? Explore Zoko’s advanced Shopify use cases for automated order updates, chat-based support, and more.

Once your content is on point, it’s time to handle the backend.

Technical Setup for Sending Newsletters

Setting up WhatsApp newsletters requires more than just drafting a message. You’ll need the right tools, API access, and integration to ensure smooth delivery at scale.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your WhatsApp newsletters run smoothly and reach your audience effectively:

1. Building an audience and collecting opt-ins

Before sending out newsletters, you need a list of subscribers who have opted in. This is crucial not only for compliance but also for maintaining a high-quality audience. Use landing pages, sign-up forms on your website, or social media to gather opt-ins. 

Ensure that your opt-in process is transparent and straightforward, allowing subscribers to easily understand what kind of content they’ll receive and how often.

2. Creating click-to-chat links and QR codes

Simplify the subscription process by providing easy ways for potential subscribers to reach you. Use click-to-chat links that allow users to message your WhatsApp directly. You can also create QR codes that link to your WhatsApp contact, making it easy for people to scan and start a conversation without needing to search for your number. 

3. Setting up automated messaging rules

With automated messaging, you can set up triggers based on subscriber actions, such as when they opt in, click a link, or engage with a previous message. This allows you to send timely, relevant updates without manually managing each message, which saves time and improves engagement.

4. Developing pre-approved messaging templates

WhatsApp requires businesses to pre-approve messages before sending them out to customers. This is especially important when sending newsletters. Develop templates that align with WhatsApp’s guidelines and have them approved in advance. 

Struggling with COD tracking and delivery updates? Zoko’s Shiprocket integration makes it easy to manage logistics right inside WhatsApp.

Before you hit send, let’s walk through the key steps to create and launch your first WhatsApp newsletter the right way.

Steps to Send Your First WhatsApp Newsletter

Now that your technical setup is complete, it's time actually to send out your first WhatsApp newsletter. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and ensure your newsletter hits the right note with your audience:

1. Setting up a WhatsApp Business Account

• Download the WhatsApp Business app and sign up with your business number.
• Complete your profile with your business name, logo, and contact information.
• Use the WhatsApp Business tools, like automated responses and message templates, to improve communication.

2. Creating and segmenting contact lists

• Organize your contacts based on interests, purchase history, or engagement.
• Segment your audience to send personalized and relevant messages.
• Keep your contact lists updated to ensure your newsletters reach the right people.

3. Drafting and sending a message template

• Keep messages short, engaging, and to the point.
• Use multimedia like images, GIFs, or videos to enhance the message.
• Get your message template pre-approved by WhatsApp.
• Schedule or send the message to your segmented contact lists once approved.

4. Monitoring message performance and making improvements

• Track key metrics such as open rates, click-through rates, and responses.
• Analyze performance data to identify areas for improvement.
• Make adjustments to future messages based on feedback and results.

Now that you know how to send a WhatsApp newsletter, let’s explore some best practices to boost engagement and get real results.

Best Practices for WhatsApp Newsletters

To ensure your WhatsApp newsletters are successful, it’s important to follow best practices that can help you achieve your business goals and maintain a strong connection with your audience. 

Here are some essential tips to guide your newsletter efforts:

1. Set Clear Goals
   Define goals like boosting sales or engagement. Tailor your content to match these goals and track performance regularly.
2. Time It Right
   Send newsletters when your audience is most active. Avoid sending too many messages and align timing with relevant seasons or events.
3. Use Proven Templates
   Stick to clean, mobile-friendly templates. Test different formats and reuse the ones that deliver strong results.
4. Add Clear CTAs
   Tell subscribers exactly what to do next, such as making a purchase or reading more. Use buttons or links to make it easy.
5. Offer Easy Opt-Outs
   Make unsubscribing simple with clear instructions. Respect preferences and follow data privacy regulations to maintain trust.

How to use WhatsApp newsletters in your business? Here are real-world examples and ideas to get you started.

Examples and Use Cases

WhatsApp newsletters can be used for various business purposes, providing a direct and engaging way to reach your audience. 

1. Customer Updates and Product Launches

• New product announcements: Inform your audience about your business's latest products or features.
• Service updates: Notify customers about service changes, hours, or new offerings, ensuring they stay in the loop.
• Launch countdowns: Build anticipation with countdown messages leading up to product launches or special events.

2. Event Reminders and Registration Updates

• Event invitations: Send personalized invites for upcoming events, webinars, or promotions directly to your audience.
• Registration confirmations: Ensure customers know their event, course, or exclusive session registration has been confirmed.
• Last-minute reminders: Remind attendees about an upcoming event or essential deadlines, increasing the likelihood of their participation.

3. Exclusive Offers and Loyalty Programs

• Flash sales: Share time-sensitive discounts or promotions to create urgency and drive quick sales.
• Loyalty rewards: Update subscribers on loyalty program perks, such as points, bonuses, or special member benefits.
• Exclusive access: Give your audience access to special content or promotions, rewarding their engagement and increasing brand loyalty.

4. Content Distribution Like Blog Posts and Videos

• Content promotion: Share the latest blog posts, articles, or videos directly with your audience to increase content engagement.
• Product tutorials: Provide video tutorials or how-to guides to help customers better understand your products or services.
• Curated content: Share helpful resources, such as industry news or customer success stories, to keep your audience informed.

5. Surveys and Feedback Collection

• Customer satisfaction surveys: Ask for product or service feedback to improve your offerings and customer experience.
• Polls and quizzes: Run interactive polls to engage your audience while gathering useful insights on their preferences or interests.
• Product feedback: Collect opinions on new products or features, helping guide future development and offering a sense of ownership to your customers.

These examples show how WhatsApp newsletters can be a valuable tool in various areas of your business, from driving sales to building relationships and improving customer engagement.

How Zoko Helps with WhatsApp Newsletters

Managing WhatsApp newsletters at scale can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re juggling multiple tools. That’s where Zoko steps in. It simplifies the process and helps you turn newsletters into a high-impact marketing channel.

1. Easy Access to WhatsApp Business API

Zoko gives you direct access to the WhatsApp Business API. There’s no need for technical workarounds or third-party tools. You get a reliable and compliant way to send newsletters from day one.

2. Smart Subscriber Management

With Zoko, you can easily collect opt-ins, organize your audience, and segment them based on purchase history, preferences, or behavior. This makes your newsletters more personalized and relevant.

3. Quick Template Approvals

Zoko streamlines creating and submitting message templates for WhatsApp’s approval. Once approved, you can schedule or automate your newsletters without delays.

4. Powerful Automation Features

Whether you want to send back-in-stock alerts or time-limited offers, Zoko allows you to automate newsletters based on customer activity. This keeps your outreach timely and engaging.

5. In-Depth Analytics

Zoko provides detailed insights into how your newsletters perform. You can track opens, clicks, and replies, helping you fine-tune your content and strategy over time.

6. Seamless Shopify Integration

For DTC brands using Shopify, Zoko makes it easy to send product updates and promotions directly from your store. Everything stays in sync, including customer data and your product catalog.

‍

As businesses continue to look for effective ways to engage with their audience, transitioning to WhatsApp for newsletters can offer numerous benefits. By using WhatsApp, you can take advantage of higher open rates, personalized communication, and multimedia capabilities, all while reducing costs and boosting engagement. It’s a direct and impactful way to stay connected with your customers and deliver timely updates.

If you’re looking to build stronger customer relationships through WhatsApp newsletters, Zoko gives you the tools and visibility to do it right: automate messages, personalize content, and engage your audience more effectively by making WhatsApp your primary communication channel.

Try Zoko’s free demo today and see how our platform can help you transform your WhatsApp newsletters into a powerful tool for growth.