Customers could WhatsApp you straight from Google. Here’s how to set it up.
In 2026, 85% of people would rather message over call a business - are you set up for this? It's FREE, so fix it now.
When you run a small business, answering the phone isn’t always possible. You might be halfway through a job, serving a customer or driving between appointments. Giving people a simple way to message you can make that first enquiry easier for everyone.
Google lets eligible businesses add a WhatsApp contact option to their Business Profile—the listing customers see on Google Search and Maps. Someone finding your business can then start a WhatsApp conversation directly from your profile. Availability varies, so your first job is to check whether the option appears on yours. Google’s guidance
For a plumber, that could mean receiving a photo of a leaking tap. For a hairdresser, it could be a question about appointments. Customers can explain what they need, and you have the details ready when you reply. The younger generation far prefer messaging over calls or filling in forms. In fact, it has been shown that only offering these options have a negative effect on your business
Your profile must be claimed and verified. Sign into the Google account you use to manage it, search for your business and select Edit profile, followed by Contact. Look for Chat, select the edit option and choose WhatsApp. You’ll need to enter a WhatsApp link, then save the change.
Creating that link is straightforward. Start with https://wa.me/ and add your WhatsApp number in international format. For a UK mobile, replace the first zero with 44, leaving out the plus sign, spaces and brackets. The format should look like https://wa.me/447XXXXXXXXX, with your own digits replacing the placeholders. Keep any other zeros in your number. WhatsApp’s instructions
Use a number you’re happy for customers to contact. Open the completed link on another phone before adding it, and check that it opens a conversation with the correct account. Once the option appears on your Google listing, test that too.
If you cannot see Chat, the feature may not be available for your profile. You can still use your WhatsApp link on your website or social profiles to give customers an easy route to message you.
Think about your first reply as well. Asking for the right information straight away avoids unnecessary back-and-forth. A tradesperson might write: “Thanks for getting in touch. Please send your postcode, a photo and a short description of what you need, and I’ll get back to you with the next step.”
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