If you’ve been running lead generation campaigns online, there’s probably a single script you like to use when messaging new leads for the first time, especially over WhatsApp. You’ll then want to message all new leads at once. It saves time, and when composed well and sent promptly, it can help increase your chances of getting a response.

But as you know, there are still two main challenges here. The first challenge is finding a way to access and manage all your new leads in one place, preferably on your phone, then sending them your welcome script via WhatsApp. Secondly, bulk messaging on WhatsApp goes against their Terms of Service, and doing so could get your number banned. Additionally, bulk sending doesn’t necessarily let you reach out to new leads immediately, because you’d usually have to wait until you have a complete list of people to reach out to.

What if you didn’t have to deal with any of this? What if you could automatically send your script to every new lead via WhatsApp immediately after they’ve submitted interest?

Privyr introduces WhatsApp Auto-Responder. This feature lets you automatically message new leads on WhatsApp, directly from your own number, the moment they’re captured from any lead source. Yes, any lead source. 

No more messy spreadsheets, no shady workarounds with third-party tools, and no risk of getting banned. Just simple, instant, automated follow-ups that help you respond to new leads 24/7.

This article will explain everything you need to know about Privyr’s WhatApp Auto-Responder, how to set it up, and how to make the best use of it to improve your chances of converting more leads into clients.     

So what is Privyr’s WhatsApp Auto-Responder? 

WhatsApp Auto-Responder is a new feature from Privyr that lets you automatically send an instant welcome or introduction message to new leads on their WhatsApp the moment they’re captured on your lead source.

For example, if you’re running a Facebook Lead Ad, the usual process of reaching out to new leads from this campaign would be to:

  1. Periodically check for new leads
  2. Manually export them, sort them in a spreadsheet
  3. Manually message each one by typing their details in your phone, or use an external bulk sender tool.

With Privyr’s Auto-Responder, you can skip all of the above.

Once you set it up, Privyr will instantly send your message to each new lead right via WhatsApp after they submit their details – automatically and without any manual work.

It’s a game-changer for businesses that want to engage leads instantly. You’ll be able to connect with them while they’re most interested, boosting your chances of getting a reply and converting them later. Best of all, it’s fully compliant with WhatsApp’s Terms of Service, so your number won’t risk getting flagged or banned.

Suggested read: What is the ideal response time and how to achieve it efficiently

How is WhatsApp Auto-Responder different from WhatsApp’s Auto Reply 

You might already be familiar with WhatsApp’s Auto-Reply feature, which lets you automatically send a generic reply when someone messages you while you’re unavailable.

WhatsApp Auto-Responder, however, is something entirely different. It doesn’t just reply to incoming messages, it helps you start the conversation.

Normally, when you generate leads online, you only collect their contact details. The leads won’t send you a WhatsApp message. That means, even if you have the Auto-Reply turned on, you’ll have to manually reach out to the leads later. This is where WhatsApp Auto-Responder changes the game.   

With WhatsApp Auto-Responder, you can automatically reach out to them on WhatsApp from your existing WhatsApp Business number as soon as a lead is captured on your lead source. No delays, no manual effort, just instant engagement with your new leads, right when they’re most interested.

Here are a few differences between these two tools: 

WhatsApp Auto-Reply WhatsApp Auto-Responder
First messageAutomatically replies to leads/contacts if they message you during your off hoursAutomatically messages new leads 24/7 immediately after they submit interest on any source
Automatic response to new leadsYes, but only if they message you during your off hoursYes, 24 hours a day
Personalised message for each leadNo, message is generic and the same for all enquiriesYes, the Auto-Responder is customised with each lead’s name and other details
Used for Replying contacts that message you when you’re not availableInstantly reaching out to new leads with an introduction message or any message of your choice the moment they enter your pipeline
Tools neededWhatsApp Business app on your phone WhatsApp Business app, Privyr
Cost FreeCharged per successful auto-response, ensuring you stay at the top of their minds

How to set up WhatsApp Auto-Responder on Privyr 

Before you begin, here’s what you need to activate this feature: 

ToolsWhatsApp Business. Privyr (With at least a Privyr Pro subscription).
CostMonthly (or yearly) Privyr Pro subscription charge (starts at $35). Per message charge for every successful auto response on WhatsApp. 

Here’s how to activate your WhatsApp autoresponder on Privyr: 

Step 1 

Visit privyr.com and sign in. If you don’t already have an account, sign up for a new account. Then, download the Privyr app on your phone and integrate all lead sources you’re generating leads on. Examples include Facebook Lead Ads, WordPress Forms, LinkedIn, and many more.

Step 2 

Sign into Privyr on desktop, go to Integrations, and click on Configure Lead Automations

Step 3

Click on WhatsApp Auto-Responder, and then Login with Facebook.

Step 4

In the new window, click continue. You’ll be prompted to connect your Privyr account. Click on Get started. 

Step 5

Add your business portfolio and then select the first option to connect your existing WhatsApp Business app.

Step 6

Add the phone number you want to send your Auto-Response from, and your WhatsApp Business account name.  

Once you click Next, you’ll see a summary of the access required to complete the set up. Go ahead and click Continue. You’ll see a QR code and receive a message on your WhatsApp Business app with instructions.   

Step 7

Switch over to your mobile and open the message. 

Next, click on Connect to the business platform, and then choose whether or not to share your existing chat history. Select either option and click Confirm.  

Step 8

Scan the QR code on your laptop. This process may take up to 1 minute to complete. 

Step 9

Switch back to your laptop and complete the process. You’ll see a message confirming that your WhatsApp Business number is successfully connected to Privyr. Click Finish

Step 10

The final step involves setting up your Auto-Responder message that will be automatically sent to new leads. Privyr will instantly send this message to new leads that you capture on any of your lead sources that are connected to Privyr. To set up your custom Auto-Response, scroll down and add your message in the message template box, as shown below. 

Then, click on Submit for approval. Once your message template is approved by WhatsApp (usually within a minute), your auto-responder will run automatically, so all new leads received in your Privyr account will be instantly messaged via WhatsApp. It’s that easy!

Do note that you’ll be charged for each auto-response successfully sent to a lead. 

Here’s a complete video tutorial for setting up automatic WhatsApp responder with Privyr

If you’re primarily generating leads from Facebook, we also recommend activating the Meta Conversions API tool before setting up your WhatsApp Auto-Responder. This way, you get the best of both worlds – receiving more high-quality leads over time, and a seamless sales process to reach out to new prospects immediately .  

This article explains everything you need to know about conversions API, plus how to activate it to make the best of it.  

Final words 

If you use WhatsApp to communicate with your leads and customers, a WhatsApp Auto-Responder can be a game-changer, not just for lead nurturing, but for streamlining your first outreach.

It handles one of the most crucial sales steps after lead generation: reaching out to new prospects while you’re still fresh in their minds. By contacting them instantly, it boosts your chances of conversion.

Even better, it frees up your time and energy to focus on parts of the conversation that need the human touch, such as personally showing them how your product or service can truly make a difference.

If you haven’t tried Privyr yet, now’s the time. Boost your sales by up to 300% through faster lead response, smarter follow-ups, and a highly efficient sales process. 
Download Privyr today!

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Author

A writer from the heart and marketer from the mind, Michael writes to help businesses implement effective sales and marketing strategies.