If you run a small shop in Nigeria, one of the easiest ways to connect with customers is through WhatsApp Business. Most of your buyers already use WhatsApp every day. So why not meet them there, but with a professional touch?
WhatsApp Business makes it simple for shop owners to display products, set business hours, create quick replies, and build trust with their customers. You don’t need a big office or a website before looking like a serious business. All you need is your phone, your number, and a few minutes to set it up.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started.
Step 1: Download WhatsApp Business
Go to the Google Play Store (for Android) or the App Store (for iPhone). Search for WhatsApp Business and download it. This is not the same as normal WhatsApp. The Business app has special tools for shops.
Step 2: Register With Your Shop Number
Open the app.
Enter your phone number (preferably the one your customers already know).
You’ll receive an SMS or call to confirm.
If you’re already using normal WhatsApp on that number, you can switch to WhatsApp Business without losing your chats.
Step 3: Set Up Your Business Profile
This is where your shop becomes official. Add:
Business Name (keep it the same as your shop’s name).
Category (e.g., Electronics, Food, Fashion, Kids’ Items).
Description (short, clear line about what you sell).
Address & Business Hours (so customers know when you’re open).
Profile Picture (use your logo or a clear shop photo).
Step 4: Add a Product Catalog
Think of this as your free online shop or shelf inside WhatsApp. So, make sure to arrange well and beautifully with lovely photos.
Tap Business Tools → Catalog → Add New Item.
Upload photos of your products.
Add names, prices, and descriptions.
For example: “Redmi Note 13 – ₦260,000, 128GB storage, available now at The Phonepreneur.”
Step 5: Create Quick Replies & Auto Messages
Customers don’t like waiting. WhatsApp Business helps you respond fast:
Greeting Message: “Welcome to [Shop Name], how can we help you today?”
Quick Replies: Save common answers like prices, delivery info, or account details.
Away Message: Let customers know when you’re closed and when you will be back online.
Step 6: Organize Your Chats With Labels
As your shop grows, messages will multiply. Use labels to stay organized:
“New Order”
“Paid”
“Pending Delivery”
“Customer Inquiry”
This way, no order gets lost in the mix.
BONUS: How to Add Labels on WhatsApp Business
Open WhatsApp Business and go to your Chats tab.
Tap and hold the chat (or individual message) you want to label.
At the top of the screen, tap the label icon (a little tag symbol).
You’ll see the default labels like:
🟢 New Order
🔵 Paid
🟠 Pending Delivery
🔴 Customer Inquiry
Choose the right label, or tap + Add New Label to create your own.
Done! Your chat now shows that label, making it super easy to filter later.
Step 7: Share Your WhatsApp Business Link
Once set up, share your direct WhatsApp link on Facebook, Instagram, flyers, or even receipts. Example: wa.me/234XXXXXXXXXX
This makes it easy for customers to reach you instantly without searching for your number.
Rounding Off
With WhatsApp Business, you don’t need big money or a fancy office to look professional, dear friend. In just a few minutes, your small shop can have a digital storefront, organized orders, and faster customer service all at once.
At The Phonepreneur Global, we’re not just about selling all things techs across Nigeria, we help you use them smartly to grow your hustle. From kids’ tablets to 5G phones to the content creator’s kit, we deliver nationwide and guide you every step of the way.
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👉 Buy Kids’ Tablets
👉 Get the Content Creator’s Kit
