Instagram’s New WhatsApp Sticker: A Game-Changer for Customer Engagement

Instagram has introduced a new WhatsApp sticker for Stories, allowing businesses to connect directly with potential customers through WhatsApp. This update makes it easier than ever to drive engagement, answer inquiries, and build relationships—all within the platforms your audience already uses.

How the WhatsApp Sticker Works

The new sticker, found in the Instagram Stories sticker tray, lets users tap to start a WhatsApp chat with your business. To set it up, you’ll need to verify your phone number, ensuring that customers are directed to the correct WhatsApp account.

This feature provides a seamless way to drive interactions, whether you’re answering customer questions, promoting a service, or offering support. Instead of relying on customers to visit your website or send a DM, they can now reach you instantly with a single tap.

Why This Matters for Business Owners

1. Messaging is the Future of Social Media

Consumer behaviour is shifting—people are moving away from public posts and toward private conversations. Instagram’s chief, Adam Mosseri, has confirmed that messaging is now the primary way people share content on Instagram.

This means businesses should embrace messaging as a core part of their engagement strategy, meeting customers where they are most comfortable.

2. WhatsApp is Growing Rapidly

While WhatsApp has long been dominant in international markets, it’s now seeing rapid adoption in the U.S., with over 100 million American users in 2024. This presents a huge opportunity for businesses to connect with audiences in a more personal and direct way.

3. A More Direct Path to Sales and Customer Service

By adding a WhatsApp sticker to your Instagram Stories, you remove friction from the customer journey. Instead of navigating to a website or sending an email, potential customers can instantly start a conversation—leading to quicker responses and higher conversions.

How to Use the WhatsApp Sticker in Your Stories

1.Open Instagram Stories and create a new post.

2.Tap the sticker icon in the top menu.

3.Select the WhatsApp sticker from the sticker tray.

4.Enter and verify your WhatsApp business phone number.

5.Post your Story and encourage followers to tap the sticker to start a chat.

How to Make the Most of This Feature

•Encourage Customers to Reach Out – Use Stories to promote special offers, answer FAQs, or provide personalised support.

•Drive More Sales – Offer exclusive discounts or product recommendations through private WhatsApp conversations.

•Build a Community – Strengthen customer relationships by providing one-on-one engagement in a convenient format.

Final Thoughts

The new WhatsApp sticker is a powerful tool for businesses looking to improve customer interaction on Instagram. As social media shifts toward private messaging, integrating WhatsApp into your engagement strategy can help you stay ahead of the curve.

If you haven’t explored WhatsApp for business yet, now is the perfect time to start—and this sticker makes it easier than ever.