Step-by-Step Guide: Creating a WhatsApp Chatbot using ManyChat

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Requirements for Creating a WhatsApp Chatbot
3. Creating a ManyChat Account
4. Setting up ManyChat Pro License
5. Acquiring a Phone Number for the Chatbot
6. Connecting ManyChat to WhatsApp
7. Setting up WhatsApp Business Account
8. Creating a WhatsApp Welcome Message
9. Creating a Default Reply Message
10. testing and Publishing the Chatbot
11. Conclusion

📞 How to Create a WhatsApp Chatbot using ManyChat

Nowadays, businesses are leveraging the power of chatbots to automate customer interactions and provide a seamless user experience. In this article, we'll guide you on how to create a WhatsApp chatbot using ManyChat. But before we dive in, let's take a look at the requirements to get started.

🔧 Requirements for Creating a WhatsApp Chatbot

To create a WhatsApp chatbot, you'll need two things:

1. ManyChat Account with a Pro License: Sign up for a ManyChat account and ensure you have a pro license to access the necessary features.

2. Phone Number for Chatbot: You'll need a phone number to connect ManyChat to WhatsApp. Ensure the number is not already connected to a business app or personal WhatsApp account. It's recommended to purchase a new number exclusively for your chatbot.

Now, let's proceed with the step-by-step process of creating a WhatsApp chatbot using ManyChat.

📝 Creating a ManyChat Account

To start, visit ManyChat's website and sign up for a free account. If you already have an account, simply log in. Make sure you have a pro license to access advanced features.

🔐 Setting up ManyChat Pro License

Once logged in, navigate to "Settings" and click on "Billing." Fill in your billing credentials and set up your ManyChat pro account. This will grant you access to additional features necessary for creating a WhatsApp chatbot.

📲 Acquiring a Phone Number for the Chatbot

To connect ManyChat to WhatsApp, you need to link it with a phone number. It's recommended to purchase a new phone number exclusively for your chatbot. Go to ManyChat's settings, click on WhatsApp, and select "Connect." Proceed by following the instructions and linking the phone number you acquired.

📞 Connecting ManyChat to WhatsApp

After acquiring a suitable phone number, go to ManyChat's settings again and click on WhatsApp. Click on "Connect" and follow the prompts to log in with your Facebook account. Register your WhatsApp business account, create a business profile, and verify your WhatsApp business number. Once completed, you'll see your WhatsApp Channel connected in ManyChat.

🖊️ Creating a WhatsApp Welcome Message

To engage users, it's essential to create a welcoming message for your chatbot. In ManyChat, go to "Automation" and click on "New Flow." Create a trigger that responds to keywords like "hi," "hello," or "hey." Set a personalized greeting using the user's first name, which you can Collect through a user input field. Provide options for users to book an appointment or ask a question, and set up respective flows for each option.

📨 Creating a Default Reply Message

The default reply message is the response your chatbot sends when it doesn't understand a user's query. In ManyChat's settings, click on WhatsApp, then "WhatsApp Default Reply." Edit the flow and customize the default reply. Allow users to choose whether they want to be forwarded to a human agent or provide them with predefined options.

🧪 Testing and Publishing the Chatbot

After setting up the welcome message and default reply, it's crucial to test your chatbot's functionality. Ensure that the responses and automated actions are working as intended. Once satisfied with the results, publish your chatbot to make it available to users.

📝 Conclusion

Creating a WhatsApp chatbot using ManyChat offers businesses the opportunity to automate customer interactions and enhance user experiences. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can easily set up your own chatbot and start reaping the benefits of automated conversations. Experiment, iterate, and optimize your chatbot to provide exceptional Customer Service and drive engagement.

🙋 FAQ

Q: Can I use an existing WhatsApp number for my chatbot? A: It's recommended to purchase a new phone number exclusively for your chatbot to avoid conflicts with existing accounts.

Q: How can I access WhatsApp functionality in ManyChat? A: WhatsApp integration with ManyChat is currently in beta. If you don't have access, reach out to ManyChat's support team for assistance.

Q: Can I customize the default reply message? A: Yes, you can personalize the default reply message to align with your brand's tone and provide relevant options to users.

Resources:

• ManyChat: https://manychat.com/