15 Apr 2024
Did you know that businesses with an official, verified WhatsApp account have seen up to a 10% increase in leads generated through WhatsApp? Don't underestimate the power of that little green checkmark! Just like Nike's tick, the WhatsApp green tick badge will get customers to just do it
In this quick but comprehensive guide, we'll explore the WhatsApp green tick and show you how to get verified. From understanding the difference between account types to getting started with the application process, we've got you covered.
What is a WhatsApp green tick?
The green tick, officially called a Whatsapp verified business account, is the same as the verified account badge you might see on official Facebook or Twitter pages. The green badge next to a WhatsApp business name is more than just a pretty sign - it's a symbol that your account has been officially verified and approved by WhatsApp and Meta themselves.
The verification serves two main purposes:
It proves your business' legitimacy and authenticity to customers right off the bat. That green tick immediately says "WhatsApp trusts us, you can too!"
It unlocks features like analytics tracking, and advanced automation.
In January 2024 alone, 19 billion spam messages were sent via SMS. With billions of messages zipping around every month, it can be hard for customers to know who's legit and who's not. That's where the WhatsApp green tick verification comes in. It acts as a badge of authenticity, giving customers peace of mind. They can be confident they're connecting with the real deal, not some copycat profile looking to scam them.
Normal WhatsApp Business account vs official business account
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of getting that green badge, you need to understand the key differences between normal and official WhatsApp Business accounts.
The normal business account is the basic option suitable for smaller teams and businesses. It lets you create a business profile, showcase products, and chat with customers. But no green tick, automation or other advanced features.
The official business account is meant for larger businesses with a big customer base and high messaging volumes. You get everything the regular account offers, along with advanced features like quick replies, message automation, the ability to apply for a green tick, and deeper customer insights.
The key differences between the two:
The regular business account is great for small businesses, but brands looking to capitalise on WhatsApp and all its features need to get an official business account.
How to apply for a WhatsApp green tick
Alright, like AJR said - can we skip to the good part? No? Okay. 🫢
Here’s how your business can apply for that green verification badge from WhatsApp:
Sign up for WhatsApp API access: Businesses need to register for the WhatsApp Business API and set up a business account. Cue can help you with this.
Important note: Before applying for the green tick verification, businesses need to create and send outbound WhatsApp campaigns as soon as possible.
Verify your business on Meta Business Manager: We have a guide on how to verify your business on Meta Business Manager. This step is important because aside from being eligible for the green tick, Meta needs to ensure that the account belongs to a reputable brand. The process is quite simple and involves heading to the Meta Business Manager security center and clicking on “start verification”. Follow the prompts presented.
Apply yourself, or ask a service provider for help: Once you’re verified, you can either submit your application yourself or do it through a provider like Cue.
Here’s how to do it yourself:
Login to WhatsApp Manager.
Click on “account tools” on the left sidebar.
Choose your phone number and click on “profile”.
Submit the request.
When you partner with a provider like Cue, we handle the entire process for you to avoid any mistakes and make the process as smooth as possible.
It’s also important to note that as per the WhatsApp Business messaging policy, not all businesses and service providers can apply for a green tick, these include businesses that specialise in or deal with:
Firearms
Alcohol and tobacco
Drugs, whether prescription, recreational, or otherwise
Medical and healthcare products
Endangered species (wildlife and plants)
Live non-endangered animals excluding livestock
Hazardous goods and materials
Real, virtual, or fake currency, including ICOs and binary options
Body parts or fluids
How to Increase your chances of getting verified
Be active and responsive
Regularly use WhatsApp Business to communicate with your customers. Respond to messages quickly, and offer fast customer support. This shows your commitment to customer satisfaction and increases your chances of being verified.
Maintain a professional public image
Make sure that your WhatsApp Business profile and online presence reflect a professional image. Earn press from local and international publications.
Adhere to WhatsApp policies
Familiarise yourself with WhatsApp's terms of service and community guidelines. Make sure whatever you do aligns with these policies to avoid any potential issues during the verification process.
Avoid incomplete or inaccurate information
Make sure that all the information you provide in your WhatsApp Business profile and verification application is accurate and up to date.
Reach tier-2 messaging services
WhatsApp uses a tiered messaging system to manage how businesses send messages and prevent abuse. There are four tiers, and reaching tier 2 or higher improves your chances of approval.
Tier 2 allows you to send messages to 10,000 numbers and you can get to that level by sending periodic and relevant WhatsApp newsletters, using auto-replies and maintaining a high response rate.
What to do if your green tick application gets rejected
Even after dotting all your i's and crossing those t's, there's a chance Meta may initially reject your application for the green badge. Don't take it personally - WhatsApp has extremely high standards.
WhatsApp gives you the opportunity to revisit and resubmit your verification request after a 30-day waiting period. Use this time wisely to improve your credibility.
Here are some tips on what to do if your green tick application gets denied:
Improve your online presence
A strong digital footprint is important to WhatsApp. Spend 30 days improving your website's content, social engagement, PR, and customer reviews.
Run click-to-WhatsApp ads
WhatsApp marketing campaigns show customers and Meta that you’re an advanced platform user. The more you use their products and the more leads you send to WhatsApp, the higher the chance of approval. Learn how to run click-to-WhatsApp ads.
Update any inconsistencies
Ensure all your business information across platforms is accurate and aligned - legal names, addresses, contact details, etc. Inconsistencies raise red flags.
Maintain a high-quality WhatsApp number rating
The more you use your WhatsApp API account, the better your chances of getting approved for the green tick. If you want the best shot at getting verified on WhatsApp, you need to keep your messaging volume and quality rating as high as possible by following Meta’s official guidelines.
Make it easy for customers to chat with you
Allow your customers to start chats with you from your website, and social media. By using web widgets on your website, and QR codes and WhatsApp buttons on your social media profiles, you make it easier for customers to contact you first. This shows Meta there’s an interest in your business.
WhatsApp Business verification FAQs
Does my business need a WhatsApp Business account to get a green tick?
Yes, you need a valid WhatsApp Business account. It’s also important to note that the green tick can only be used by organisations, not public figures.
How long does it take to get the WhatsApp Business green tick?
Verification doesn't happen instantly. It may take some time for WhatsApp to review your account and give you the green tick. It can vary from a few hours to a few days. It all depends on the type of business you run. For example, a multi-national brand or a brand with large media coverage would get green tick verification easier than a smaller company.
Get started with WhatsApp verification
Verifying your WhatsApp Business account does more than give you credibility, it boosts sales and positions you above your competitors. Though the decision rests with WhatsApp, Cue can help you smoothen the process and ensure no mistakes are made. Contact Cue for a demo!