Before sending any messages through the WhatsApp Business API, it’s a must to get the user’s consent first. That’s Meta’s way of ensuring only those who are actually interested receive messages—whether it’s a notification, an offer, or a reminder.
According to Meta:
“We want people to receive helpful and expected messages from businesses they care about.”
So how can you get more people to opt in to your WhatsApp updates, without annoying them or being pushy?
Let’s break it all down—from what opt-in means to seven easy ways to increase opt-ins and manage everything smartly.
What is a WhatsApp Opt-in?
A WhatsApp Opt-in is user consent that allows you to send messages via WhatsApp. It’s not just a formality—this is a key part of your marketing and support workflow.
You can collect this permission through several touchpoints—like your website, a signup form, or even directly in WhatsApp.
For it to be valid, the opt-in message must clearly mention:
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Your business name
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The user’s consent to receive updates or messages from your business
Now, if you’re thinking this might be a tough sell, it’s really not. There are simple strategies that can help you get more people saying “yes” to hearing from you.
7 Smart Ways to Get WhatsApp Opt-ins
1. Add a WhatsApp Opt-in Pop-Up on Your Website
One of the easiest methods is showing a pop-up that invites website visitors to stay updated via WhatsApp.
You can capture their name and number instantly, then shift the conversation over to WhatsApp for everything from updates to support.
2. Offer the Opt-in Option on Your Signup Page
When someone is signing up for your service or filling out a form, that’s your chance.
Just add a checkbox asking if they want to get updates or alerts via WhatsApp. Also, be transparent—tell them what kind of messages they’ll receive (e.g. promotions, OTPs, updates).
3. Ask for Direct Consent on WhatsApp
Good news: WhatsApp now allows direct opt-ins on WhatsApp itself.
If you already have the user’s number, you can start the conversation with a message asking, “Would you like to get updates from us here?” If they reply with “Yes,” that counts as an opt-in.
Just make sure to be clear, polite, and always include an opt-out option too.
4. Use SMS or Email Campaigns to Get Consent
Let your email and SMS subscribers know that you’re available on WhatsApp too.
Since WhatsApp has a much higher open rate than email or SMS, shifting your engagement here can significantly improve responses. You can use this opportunity to explain the benefits of connecting on WhatsApp and link them directly to start a conversation.
5. Place a WhatsApp Button on Your Website
Adding a WhatsApp chat button on your homepage or product pages makes it super easy for users to initiate a conversation. And when they do, that counts as opt-in!
You can even pre-fill the message text to something like:
“Hi! I’d like to receive updates and offers on WhatsApp.”
That one click turns a visitor into an opted-in contact.
6. Use In-Store QR Codes to Get Opt-ins
If you run a physical store or events, you can put up QR codes linked to your WhatsApp number.
When customers scan it, it opens a WhatsApp chat where they can send a pre-written message giving you permission to keep them updated.
7. Promote Your WhatsApp on Social Media
Make the most of platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook to invite followers to connect on WhatsApp. Add a WhatsApp link in your bio or post stories inviting people to join your broadcast list.
You can even run “Click to WhatsApp” ads that send people straight into a chat where they can opt in.
5 Quick Tips to Triple Your WhatsApp Opt-ins
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Be clear and straightforward
Don’t complicate things. Tell users exactly what kind of value they’ll get by opting in. -
Don’t overwhelm them
Send messages only when necessary. Keep it relevant to avoid being muted or blocked. -
Run click-to-chat ads
Facebook and Instagram ads that lead directly to WhatsApp are a great way to grow your opted-in list. -
Give users control
Let them opt-out whenever they want. Include a simple message like: “Reply STOP to unsubscribe.” -
Stay consistent
Follow through with quality communication. That builds trust—and keeps users engaged.
WhatsApp Opt-in Rules & Best Practices
Meta (the company behind WhatsApp) has put together some important rules every business must follow to keep things clear, respectful, and spam-free.
Let’s break them down—with examples:
✅ 1. Get consent first – before sending promotional content
Before you send a customer any promotional offers, newsletters, or updates on WhatsApp, they must agree to receive messages from you.
Example:
On your website signup form, include a checkbox that says:
“Yes, I’d like to receive order updates and special offers on WhatsApp.” ✅
Only if they check this box should you start sending WhatsApp messages.
✅ 2. User-initiated chats count – but still get explicit permission
If a customer sends you the first message (like to ask about a product), you can reply. That opens a 24-hour messaging window.
But if you want to continue messaging after 24 hours, or send ongoing updates, you still need clear permission.
Example:
After chatting with a customer who asks about shipping, you can reply within 24 hours. But if you want to send them promotional offers next week, you should ask:
“Would you like to get future updates or offers on WhatsApp?”
If they reply “Yes”, you’ve got explicit opt-in.
✅ 3. Explain what to expect
Tell people upfront what kind of messages you’ll be sending.
Example:
“By signing up, you’ll receive your order details, shipping updates, and occasional discount offers on WhatsApp. You can unsubscribe anytime.”
This builds trust and sets clear expectations.
✅ 4. Make opt-out easy
People should always have a simple way to stop receiving messages if they change their mind.
Example:
Include this line in your messages:
“Reply STOP anytime to unsubscribe from our WhatsApp updates.”
Also, set up automation to instantly remove users when they type “STOP,” “Unsubscribe,” or similar words.
Why does this matter?
Meta wants WhatsApp to stay personal, helpful, and free from spam. By following these rules, you’re not only protecting your number from getting flagged—you’re also giving users a better experience, which leads to higher trust and engagement.
WhatsApp Opt-in FAQs
Q1. What does WhatsApp consent mean?
It means getting user approval before sending business-related messages on WhatsApp. This ensures users are only contacted by brands they trust.
Q2. How does WhatsApp enforce this policy?
If too many people block or report your number, your sender quality score drops. This can lead to restrictions—or even having your account disabled.
Q3. Is Opt-in mandatory?
Yes. You can’t send a business-initiated message unless the user has explicitly opted in, especially outside the 24-hour session window.
Q4. Do customer support messages count as opt-in?
Yes—if a customer starts the chat asking for support, you can reply within 24 hours. But for continued updates, you still need their permission.
Final Thoughts
Getting WhatsApp Opt-ins isn’t just about compliance—it’s the first step toward building strong, long-term relationships with your customers.
When done right, it means more trust, better engagement, and ultimately, more conversions.
Whether you’re using a website popup, a QR code at your store, or a Click-to-Chat ad, the key is making it easy and clear for your customers to say “yes.”
If you’re ready to put these strategies into action, now’s the time to build your list and grow faster. Start with us Today!
