How to auto-reply to customers on WhatsApp

1. 1

   Install WhatsApp Business (free)

   Download the free WhatsApp Business app from the Play Store or App Store. You can use your existing business number — it moves your chats over. This is a separate, free app from regular WhatsApp, built for shops.

2. 2

   Set a greeting message for new customers

   Open Settings, then Business tools, then Greeting message. Turn it on and write a warm first reply, for example 'Namaste! Thanks for messaging [Shop Name]. We usually reply within a few minutes.' WhatsApp sends this automatically the first time someone messages you.

3. 3

   Set an away message for after hours

   In Business tools, open Away message. Turn it on, choose your off hours, and write what to say when you are closed, for example 'We are closed right now and will reply tomorrow after 10 AM. For urgent orders, call [number].' It sends automatically outside your set hours.

4. 4

   Save quick replies for common questions

   In Business tools, open Quick replies. Add short answers you send often — price lists, address and timings, delivery details — each with a shortcut like /price or /address. When chatting, type the shortcut and the full message fills in with one tap.

5. 5

   Let AI answer real questions on its own

   Greeting, away and quick-reply messages are fixed text — they cannot understand what a customer actually asked. To answer real questions like 'do you have this in red, size M?' or 'what's the price for 5 pieces?' automatically, you need an AI assistant connected to WhatsApp. Jhalmuri.ai sets this up and manages it for your shop.

Frequently asked questions