In the bustling world of Zimbabwean small businesses, staying ahead of the curve is key. Thankfully, WhatsApp, the ubiquitous messaging platform, just upped its game with a slew of new features, offering an unprecedented opportunity for local entrepreneurs to thrive.
Where everyone has become an entrepreneur of one form or another, where everyone is selling something to compliment their formal income if any, one has to find a way to place their products right where the audience is.
In a recent publication, POTRAZ registered that there was an increase in mobile internet penetration in the country to 70%. Any would-be seller is looking at approximately 70% of the population as their potential market.
That said most of the online or data usage is attributed to WhatsApp as it has become the main communication tool for most Zimnabweans and also taking into account that internet service providers have created discounted data bundles for this app.
That said, now let’s explore how these updates can be your secret weapon for growth:
Shopping Made Easy:
- Shop Button: Imagine a “Buy Now” button directly on your WhatsApp profile! That’s what the Shop Button offers. Showcase your products, manage orders, and receive payments without leaving the chat.
- Catalogues: Forget endless scrolling through photos. Create a sleek, organized catalogue highlighting your offerings, making browsing and selection a breeze for customers.
Fueling Engagement:
- Disappearing Messages: Spark curiosity and urgency with limited-time offers or “flash sales” using disappearing messages.
- Communities: Build exclusive communities around your brand, fostering loyalty and creating a platform for direct interaction with your customers.
- Personalized Greetings: Craft automated welcome messages for new contacts, introducing your brand and setting the tone for a positive experience.
Streamlining Communication:
- Quick Replies: Save time and energy with pre-written responses to common inquiries.
- Labels: Organize your contacts into meaningful groups, ensuring relevant information reaches the right audience.
Reaching New Heights:
- Facebook/Instagram Ads: Run targeted ads directly through WhatsApp for as little as US$1 per day, leveraging the reach of these social media giants to attract new customers.
- Business Insights: Gain valuable data on customer interactions, track campaign performance, and make informed decisions to optimize your strategy.
Remember:
- Content is King: High-quality product photos, engaging descriptions, and personalized communication are still key to success.
- Customer Care Matters: Respond promptly to inquiries, address concerns, and build trust with your audience. Take advantage of the fact you can use WhatsApp on the go.
- Experiment and Adapt: Don’t be afraid to try out different features and find what resonates with your customers.
With these powerful new tools in your arsenal, WhatsApp can no longer be just a messaging platform. It’s a game-changer for Zimbabwean entrepreneurs, opening doors to increased sales, deeper customer engagement, and exponential growth. So, embrace the WhatsApp revolution and watch your business soar!
