How to Set Up Click-to-WhatsApp Ads & Boost Customer Engagement in 2025
Digital marketing is evolving, and businesses need smarter, faster ways to connect with customers. Today’s consumers expect instant engagement on the platforms they use daily. That’s where Click-to-WhatsApp (CTWA) ads come in.
Instead of leading users to a website or landing page, CTWA ads enable real-time conversations with businesses at the click of a button. Whether it’s answering product queries, closing sales, or offering support, these ads make interactions seamless and more effective.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up Click-to-WhatsApp ads and optimizing them for the best results. Let’s dive in!
What Are Click-to-WhatsApp Ads?
Click-to-WhatsApp ads are a powerful ad format available on Facebook and Instagram. These ads feature a “Send Message” CTA that, when clicked, opens a direct chat with the business on WhatsApp.
Unlike traditional ads that take users to a webpage, CTWA ads remove friction and encourage instant interactions. This makes them a great tool for businesses looking to boost customer engagement and conversion rates.
Why Use Click-to-WhatsApp Ads?
Real-time conversations – Connect instantly with customers.
Personalized interactions – Use images, videos, and quick replies.
Frictionless experience – No need for forms or extra steps.
Better lead qualification – Capture high-intent leads directly in chat.
For businesses using the WhatsApp Business API, these ads become even more powerful by integrating automation, chatbots, and CRM tools to streamline interactions.
Prerequisites for Running Click-to-WhatsApp Ads
Before setting up your first campaign, make sure you have the following:
A Verified WhatsApp Business Account
A verified WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) builds trust and unlocks advanced features. To get verified:
Register for a WhatsApp Business Account.
Complete your business profile (name, logo, contact details).
Apply for official verification via WhatsApp Business Manager.
Linking Your WhatsApp Number to Facebook
To run Click-to-WhatsApp ads, you must link your WhatsApp number to your Facebook page:
Go to your Facebook Page Settings.
Select the WhatsApp tab.
Enter your business number and verify it.
Understanding Your Target Audience
To maximize engagement, analyze customer data, conduct market research, and use Facebook Audience Insights to tailor your messaging.
How to Set Up Click-to-WhatsApp Ads (Step-by-Step)
Step 1:
Access Facebook Ads Manager
Log into Facebook Ads Manager and navigate to the Campaigns tab. Click Create to start a new campaign.
Step 2:
Choose the Right Campaign Objective
Select Messages as your objective, then set your conversion location to Messaging Apps and choose WhatsApp as the messaging platform.
Step 3:
Set Your Budget and Schedule
Choose Daily Budget (spends a set amount per day) or Lifetime Budget (spends over a fixed period).
Schedule your ad to run during peak customer engagement hours.
Step 4:
Craft an Engaging Ad Copy
Your ad copy should be clear, concise, and persuasive. Include:
A compelling hook to grab attention.
High-quality visuals (image/video).
A strong Call-to-Action (CTA), such as “Chat with us on WhatsApp!”
Step 5:
Add the Click-to-WhatsApp CTA
Select your ad format (single image, video, or carousel).
Upload media and input your ad copy.
Under CTA, select Send Message and set up your welcome message.
Ensure your WhatsApp Business number is correctly linked.
Best Practices for Click-to-WhatsApp Ads
Keep Your Messages Customer-Focused
Personalize messages with customer names.
Use quick replies to make responses easier.
Stay WhatsApp-compliant to avoid restrictions.
Use Rich Media for Engagement
High-quality product images and videos.
Fun GIFs or stickers to make interactions more engaging.
Carousel ads to showcase multiple products.
Track and Optimize Performance
Monitor key ad metrics like:
Click-Through Rate (CTR) – How many users click the WhatsApp CTA.
Conversion Rate – How many conversations turn into sales or leads.
Response Rate – How many users engage after clicking.
Cost Per Conversation – How much you’re spending per lead.
Run A/B tests with different ad formats and messages to see what works best!
Why Use WhatsApp Business API with Click-to-WhatsApp Ads?
For businesses managing high volumes of customer interactions, integrating Click-to-WhatsApp ads with the WhatsApp Business API offers:
Automated Responses – Reply instantly with chatbots.
24/7 Availability – No missed leads, even outside business hours.
Lead Nurturing – Keep the conversation going with follow-ups.
Better Data Insights – Track messages, engagement, and ROI.
Final Thoughts
Click-to-WhatsApp ads are a game-changer for businesses looking to connect with customers instantly. By optimizing your ad copy, using rich media, and leveraging WhatsApp Business API, you can create an effective, frictionless customer experience.