40.63% of the global population is active on WhatsApp. Thus, it becomes significant for businesses to leverage WhatsApp marketing using any WhatsApp marketing software.

However, to fully leverage WhatsApp's features, it is essential to have your business phone number verified from Meta.  

In this guide, we will explore how to get a virtual number for WhatsApp, the benefits of having a virtual number, and how to use it effectively for your business.

What is a Virtual Number?

A virtual number is a phone number that is not tied to a physical SIM card or a specific mobile network operator. It exists solely in the virtual realm and functions just like a regular phone number for sending and receiving texts, calls via WhatsApp or sending WhatsApp OTPs.
Having a virtual number allows businesses to communicate with their customers on WhatsApp without revealing their personal phone numbers.

How to Get a Virtual Number for WhatsApp?

1. Select a Provider: The first step is to select a reliable provider for the phone number. The provider should comply with data privacy and GDPR regulations. One also has to ensure high availability and uptime. Support is also another parameter to consider while selecting a provider. ‍
2. Registration: You’d now have to register with the provider according to their process. There would be a need for some documentation and payment. You’d also get to select the geography and the phone number. You can also get a customized number if it is available. ‍
3. WhatsApp Verification: Once the number is purchased, you’d have to link the same to your Facebook business manager and get it verified. There will be an OTP verification process for the same.

Once done, you can sign up for a WhatsApp marketing platform like WhatsApp Now and start sending WhatsApp broadcasts. You can also refer to our guide on examples of a WhatsApp broadcast message for reference.  

Benefits of Using a Virtual Number for WhatsApp

There are several advantages to using a virtual number for WhatsApp, making it an essential tool for businesses. Let's explore some of the key benefits:

1. Privacy: By using a virtual number, businesses can keep their personal phone numbers private while still being able to communicate with their customers. This helps protect their privacy and reduces the risk of unwanted contact or breaches of confidentiality while using them for WhatsApp marketing.  ‍
2. Global Accessibility: Virtual numbers are not bound by geographical limitations, enabling businesses to communicate with customers worldwide without incurring international calling fees. This opens up new opportunities for international expansion and customer engagement. ‍
3. Cost-effectiveness: Operating a virtual number is generally more cost-effective than maintaining a traditional mobile line, especially for international communications. Virtual numbers eliminate the need for physical infrastructure and hardware, allowing businesses to scale their operations without significant cost increases. ‍
4. Flexibility and Convenience: Virtual numbers can be accessed from multiple devices, providing flexibility for businesses and their employees. This ensures that messages and calls can be responded to promptly, regardless of the device being used. ‍
5. Centralized Management: For businesses that operate multiple numbers, virtual numbers can be easily managed through a single dashboard. This centralized management system simplifies administrative tasks, improves efficiency, and enhances tracking and monitoring capabilities. ‍
6. Enhanced Security: Virtual numbers often come with advanced security features, such as end-to-end encryption and secure data storage. This ensures that business communications remain confidential and protected from unauthorized access.

Tips to Effectively Use a Virtual Number for WhatsApp Business

Now that you have successfully obtained a number for WhatsApp, it's time to leverage its features to enhance your business communication. Here are some tips on how to effectively use your virtual number: Numbered List

1. Customer Support: Use your virtual number for WhatsApp to provide prompt and personalized customer support. Respond to customer queries, resolve issues, and provide assistance in a timely manner. Utilize automation features to set up quick replies and automated responses for common inquiries. ‍
2. Marketing Campaigns: Incorporate your US number into your marketing campaigns to engage with your target audience. Send out promotional messages, updates, and offers to your customers through WhatsApp. Use the broadcast feature to reach a large audience simultaneously. ‍
3. Sales and Lead Generation: Use your US number to connect with potential customers, generate leads, and facilitate sales. Provide product information, answer inquiries, and guide customers through the purchasing process. Utilize WhatsApp's multimedia capabilities to showcase products and services through WhatsApp marketing messages.  ‍
4. Feedback and Surveys: Gather valuable feedback from customers by using your US number for WhatsApp. Send surveys, polls, and feedback forms to gain insights into customer satisfaction, preferences, and needs. Use this information to improve your products and services.

Best Practices for Using a Virtual Number for WhatsApp

To make the most of your virtual number for WhatsApp, consider the following best practices:

1. Maintain Professionalism: While WhatsApp provides a more casual communication platform, it is important to maintain professionalism in your interactions with customers. Use proper grammar, tone, and language to convey a professional image.
2. Timely Responses: Aim to respond to customer inquiries and messages in a timely manner. Prompt and efficient communication is key to building trust and maintaining customer satisfaction.
3. Personalization: Customize your messages and responses to each customer whenever possible. Personalized interactions help create a positive customer experience and foster loyalty. Personalized WhatsApp broadcasts also help a lot in conversions.
4. Analytics and Insights: Utilize WhatsApp's analytics and reporting features to gain insights into customer engagement, response rates, and overall performance. Use this data to optimize your communication strategies and improve customer interactions.
5. Integrate with CRM Systems: Integrate your virtual number for WhatsApp with your customer relationship management (CRM) system to streamline communication and enhance customer data management. This integration allows for seamless syncing of customer interactions and data.

Conclusion

Obtaining a virtual number for WhatsApp is a valuable asset for businesses looking to enhance their communication capabilities. With a virtual number, businesses can enjoy the benefits of privacy, global accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and centralized management.  

Start with WhatsApp Marketing Using WhatsApp Now

WhatsApp Now is a WhatsApp marketing software by Message Central which is easy to use with a 24/7 customer support. You can signup for free or get in touch for any custom needs.