What are WhatsApp Template Messages? #
WhatsApp template messages are pre-approved message formats that businesses can use to send notifications to customers. They must be approved by WhatsApp before you can use them.
Setting Up Templates in Twilio #
- Log in to your Twilio Console: Go to Twilio Console
- Navigate to WhatsApp Templates:
– Go to Develop → Messaging → Content Template Builder
– Select “Create New Template” - Create Your Template:
– Choose a template category (e.g., Marketing, Utility)
– Write your message content
– Add variables using the {{1}}, {{2}} format where you want to personalize the message
– Submit for approval
For detailed instructions, visit Twilio’s official guide: Creating Templates with the Content Template Builder
Using the WhatsApp Template Sender in Twilio Blaster #
Step 1: Open the Template Sender Form
- From the main Twilio Blaster interface, click on the “WhatsApp Templates” button
- The WhatsApp Template Sender form will open
Step 2: Enter Template ID and Fetch Template
- Enter your Template ID in the input field
- The Template ID looks like: HX94aa222111787f3ddb69f57faa270XXX
- Click the “Fetch” button
- The system will retrieve your template information from Twilio
Step 3: Review Template Information
- The template body will be displayed in the preview area
- The template type will be shown (Text, Media, Location, etc.)
- If your template has variables, they will appear in the variable mapping section
Step 4: Fill in Template Variables
- For templates with variables, double-click on a variable to edit its value
- You can enter static text or use placeholders in the format {{PLACEHOLDER_NAME}}
- Placeholders will be replaced with data from your recipient list
Step 5: Send the Template Messages
- Verify that you have recipients in your Send_Message sheet
- Click the “Send” button
- Confirm the sending operation when prompted
- The application will send the template message to all your recipients
Tips for Successful Template Messages #
- Keep templates simple: Clear, concise messages have higher delivery rates
- Use variables wisely: Only use variables for personalization, not for changing the entire message meaning
- Monitor delivery status: Check the status column in the Send_Message sheet after sending
For more help, refer to Twilio’s WhatsApp API documentation
