What is a template?

A template is a WhatsApp message that is approved by WhatsApp to send to a subscriber to initiate a conversation (business-initiated conversation). A template is created in, and belongs to, one WhatsApp Business Account (WABA).

Why do I need a template?

In order to initiate a conversation with a subscriber, you must use a template that has been approved by WhatsApp.

How do I create a template?

  1. Templates are created and managed in WhatsApp Manager here: https://business.facebook.com/wa/manage/message-templates/

  2. You can use blue Create template button to get started. You may also be able to get to this page by navigating to https://business.facebook.com/wa/manage/template-library/.

  3. You’re first presented with the option to use a blank template or choose from the template library. Feel free to explore the options in the library, but for this walkthrough we’ll use a blank template (you may also be able to get to this point by navigating to https://business.facebook.com/wa/manage/template-library/) Note: If you have access to more than one WABA, be sure that you’re creating templates in the intended one (dropdown chooser in the upper righthand corner).

  4. Most WhatsApp Templates you’ll use in Tildei will be Marketing and Custom. These are selected by default, so you can just click the blue Next button in the lower righthand corner.

    Creating a template in WhatsApp Manager.

    Creating a template in WhatsApp Manager.

  5. Enter the template details:

    Defining template content in WhatsApp Manager.

    Defining template content in WhatsApp Manager.

    1. Enter a name for your template that describes its purpose.
    2. Change the language if needed (be sure this matches the language you will use in Tildei).
    3. Optional: Choose a header type and provide content.
    4. Enter the body text, including any variables you would like to use for personalization, such as name.
    5. Optional: Enter any footer content.
    6. Buttons
      1. Adjust the default CTA button as needed.
        1. This can be removed or updated to match the template that you’re creating.
      2. Add other buttons as needed.

  6. Review the content of all completed options.

  7. Review the generated Template Preview on the right hand side.

  8. Once you have confirmed the template elements are entered correctly, click the blue Submit for review button in the lower right corner.

Template status

As templates are created and move through the approval process they can have a variety of statuses. While template approval may take up to 24 hours, we often see approvals for well crafted templates within minutes to a few hours.

Status Source Description
In-Review WA Submitted to WhatsApp, waiting for approval (within 24 hours)
Rejected WA Not approved by WhatsApp, can be edited and resubmitted or appealed
Active - Quality Pending WA Approved but not sent enough to have a quality
Active - High Quality WA Can be sent
Active - Medium Quality WA Can be sent, but has received some negative feedback
Active - Low Quality WA Can be sent, but has received negative feedback and will be paused
Paused WA Can’t be sent until pause lifted
Disabled WA Can’t be sent
Appeal Requested WA Submitted to WhatsApp, waiting for approval (within 24 hours)

Related

UsingWhatsApp Templates in Tildei