Key Takeaways
For a business, it becomes imperative to prepare ahead of time. They’d want to schedule communication related to events, occasions or triggers beforehand. Here is when a WhatsApp message scheduler comes in.
What is a WhatsApp Message Scheduler?
This is a functionality often provided by WhatsApp marketing providers through which a business can schedule WhatsApp broadcasts or WhatsApp messages in general.
This can also be enabled if you are using WhatsApp business API. The WhatsApp API documentation from your provider would elaborate the steps to be followed to schedule WhatsApp messages.
WhatsApp messages sent by business use either of the two tools: -Numbered list
- WhatsApp business app
- WhatsApp marketing platform or WhatsApp business API
Unfortunately, if a business is using a WhatsApp business app, then they’d not be able to schedule messages except in one scenario. That scenario is when a business is away or not available. In that case, they can define the message. This defined message will be sent to any user who reaches out to the business on WhatsApp during away hours.
How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages on WhatsApp Now by Message Central?
WhatsApp Now by Message Central is a WhatsApp marketing platform which can be used for sending and scheduling WhatsApp broadcasts. Here are the steps to be followed to schedule a WhatsApp broadcast.
1. You can signup for free for the platform using the “Try for Free” option on the website.
2. You can then navigate to WhatsApp Now from the homepage.
3. You can then do the embeded signup i.e. signin with your facebook business manager and navigate to “campaigns” from the left panel. There you can click on “New Broadcast”
4. You can name your broadcast, add your template on the next page.
5. You can then select “Schedule for a specified time” instead of send now as highlighted in the image below.
Why Should Brands Use WhatsApp Broadcasts?
- High Open & Engagement Rates
One of the biggest advantages of WhatsApp broadcasts is the exceptional engagement rate.
Statistics show:
- WhatsApp messages have a 90%+ open rate, compared to 20-30% for emails.
- Messages are typically read within 3 minutes of delivery.
With such high visibility, WhatsApp broadcasts outperform email marketing, social media, and SMS marketing when it comes to engagement.
- Direct & Personalized Customer Communication
Unlike social media posts that rely on algorithm-based visibility, WhatsApp broadcasts go directly into customers’ inboxes, ensuring they see the message instantly.
Why It Works for Brands?
- Each recipient receives the message as a personal chat, making it feel exclusive.
- Customers can respond privately, allowing brands to build one-on-one relationships.
- Brands can use customer names and personalized offers to make messages more engaging.
Example:
A fashion brand can send personalized messages like:
"Hey Sarah! Enjoy an exclusive 20% off on our new collection. Tap the link to shop now!"
- Cost-Effective Marketing Strategy
Compared to traditional paid ads, SMS marketing, and email campaigns, WhatsApp broadcasts are cost-effective and provide higher ROI.
Cost-Saving Benefits: Bullet points
- No additional ad spends: Unlike Facebook or Google Ads, you don’t pay for impressions.
- No expensive SMS fees: WhatsApp messages cost less compared to bulk SMS campaigns.
- Higher conversions: Because messages are seen immediately, more customers take action.
Example:
A restaurant can send a broadcast message about a limited-time discount, resulting in immediate reservations.
- Automation & Scalability for Businesses
For businesses using WhatsApp Business API, broadcasts can be automated and scaled to thousands of customers without manual effort.
This can help schedule and automate promotional campaigns, integrate with CRM systems for personalized messaging.
Example:
An e-commerce store can automate messages for
- New product launches
- Cart abandonment reminders
- Loyalty rewards & special deals
Businesses have also started using WhatsApp for authentication with WhatsApp OTP.
Boost Sales & Customer Retention
WhatsApp broadcasts help brands drive immediate sales and retain existing customers by keeping them engaged with updates, offers, and personalized recommendations.
How Brands Use WhatsApp Broadcasts for Sales?
- Exclusive deals & flash sales – Encourages instant purchases.
- Event & product launch notifications – Keeps customers informed.
- Re-engaging inactive customers – Sends personalized offers to bring them back.
Example:
A cosmetics brand can send:
"✨ New Arrival Alert! Our best-selling skincare set is back in stock. Order now before it sells out again!"
Conclusion
Thereby, using a platform like WhatsApp Now makes it quite easy to schedule a WhatsApp broadcast. With WhatsApp Now, you can:-
- Start WhatsApp marketing without any subscription cost
- Setup WhatsApp broadcasts in less than 10 minutes
- Get 24/7 customer support
You can signup for free to get started.
