Chat Link MakerA click-to-chat link works with any number that has WhatsApp. The question is which number you want customers to reach, and that is mainly about privacy and workload.
A separate business number
A separate number keeps customer chats away from family and friends, and it means you can switch the phone off after hours without missing family messages. Many small businesses use a second SIM for this. WhatsApp also offers a separate Business app; read its own help pages for what it includes, because features change.
A personal number
If you are a very small business or a tutor and you are happy to chat with customers on your own number, it is fine. Know that the number becomes public, and decide when you will answer.
Which to choose
- Many enquiries a day: use a business number.
- A few enquiries a week: your own number may do.
- You do not want strangers to have your personal number: use a business number.
Changing your mind later
If you start with a personal number and later move to a business number, every link and QR code you printed still points to the old one. Plan for this: print the number you expect to keep for years, or use short-lived items such as flyers for a number you may change. When you do change, replace the link on your profiles first, then on printed items as they run out, and tell regular customers in a message.
Whatever you choose, use the same number on your profiles and cards, and test the link.
Questions people ask
Do I need a business account to use click to chat?
No. The link works with any number that has an active WhatsApp account.