Editing Choose a number for WhatsApp (section)

= Choose a number for WhatsApp =

== Introduction ==
Choosing a number for WhatsApp in ActiveCampaign is a vital step to leverage the power of WhatsApp messaging for your business. With this feature, you can engage with customers through a channel they are already familiar with, thereby facilitating better communication and fostering customer relationships. Utilizing the WhatsApp Business API allows businesses to automate messages, provide customer support, and enhance marketing strategies. This article will guide you through the process of selecting a phone number for WhatsApp, ensuring that you set up your messaging capabilities correctly and efficiently.

== How to Access This Feature ==
To access the feature of choosing a number for WhatsApp, follow these steps:
1. Log in to your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Navigate to the '''Settings''' section in your account dashboard.
3. From the settings menu, select '''WhatsApp'''.
4. Within the WhatsApp settings, locate the option to choose a number.

== Step-by-Step Instructions ==
Here’s how to choose your WhatsApp number:

=== Prerequisites ===
To begin, ensure you have:
1. A phone number capable of receiving SMS or calls.
2. Access to your company’s Facebook (Meta) Business Manager Account. Check your access by visiting your Business Manager and logging in at [https://business.facebook.com/business/loginpage].

=== Choosing a Phone Number ===
You have three primary methods for obtaining a phone number to use with WhatsApp:

==== 1. Use a New Number ====
- Buying a new number is the simplest method, as it won’t be linked to any existing WhatsApp account. 
- Options to acquire a new number include:
  * Purchasing a new SIM card from a local carrier such as AT&T or Verizon.
  * Acquiring a digital number from a VoIP provider like Twilio, Google Voice, or Skype.
- Ensure that the purchased number can receive voice calls and SMS for the verification process.
  
==== 2. Migrate a Number in Use on the WhatsApp Business App ====
If you prefer to use an existing number:
- The current WhatsApp account must be deleted before linking it to your WhatsApp Business API account.
- Be aware that you will lose all chat history during this process.
- Important: Export any critical chat histories and back them up before proceeding, as this action is irreversible.

==== 3. Migrate a Number Already Connected to the WhatsApp API with Another Provider ====
- If you are using WhatsApp Business API through another provider, you can migrate that number to ActiveCampaign.
- Contact ActiveCampaign support for assistance with this migration, as any existing chat history will not be retained.

== Configuration Options and Settings ==
In the process of choosing your WhatsApp number, consider the following important configurations:
- The number must be verified via SMS or voice call, which is essential to the functionality of your WhatsApp Business API account.
- During the setup process within the '''WhatsApp''' menu, ensure that the number you select aligns with your business communication strategies.
  
== Best Practices and Tips ==
- Choose a number that your customers already recognize, which aids in building trust and familiarity.
- When migrating numbers, always back up important data and ensure that your customers are informed about the change to minimize confusion.
- Regularly monitor your WhatsApp conversations and analytics in ActiveCampaign to enhance customer engagement and refine your communication strategies.

== Common Use Cases with Examples ==
1. **Customer Support**: Use WhatsApp to field customer inquiries and provide quick responses, leading to a higher customer satisfaction rate.
2. **Promotions and Deals**: Send updates about promotions directly via WhatsApp to your customers, increasing the chances of engagement.
3. **Appointment Reminders**: Utilize the platform to remind customers about upcoming appointments, helping to reduce no-shows.

== Troubleshooting Section ==
If you encounter issues while choosing your WhatsApp number, consider the following troubleshooting tips:
- Ensure that the number can receive SMS or voice calls, as this is crucial for verification.
- If you’re having trouble with deletion of a current WhatsApp account, double-check that no remaining links to chat history exist.
- If migration from another provider fails, reach out to ActiveCampaign support for assistance.

== Related Features ==
- For more information on integrating and using WhatsApp in your marketing efforts, check out articles on [[Automation]] and [[Integrations]].

== FAQ ==
=== 1. What type of phone number can I use for WhatsApp? ===
You can use any phone number that can receive SMS or calls. This includes physical SIM cards or digital numbers from VoIP providers.

=== 2. Will I lose my chat history if I migrate a number? ===
Yes, migrating a number from WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business will result in a loss of all chat history associated with that number.

=== 3. How do I verify my WhatsApp number? ===
You will receive a verification code via SMS or voice call to verify the number during the setup process.

=== 4. Can I use the same phone number for multiple WhatsApp accounts? ===
No, a single phone number cannot be associated with more than one WhatsApp product at a time.

=== 5. What if I don’t have access to my company’s Facebook Business Manager? ===
If you don’t have access, request it from your team or create a new Business Manager account.

=== 6. How do I contact ActiveCampaign for support regarding number migration? ===
You can reach out through the ActiveCampaign support at [https://www.activecampaign.com/contact] for assistance with migrating your number.

=== 7. Can I use my existing number that's part of a VoIP service for WhatsApp? ===
Yes, as long as the number can receive voice calls and SMS, it can be used for WhatsApp.

By following this comprehensive guide on how to choose a number for WhatsApp, you can ensure a smooth setup process that enhances your customer communication capabilities through ActiveCampaign.
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