How to Add WhatsApp to Google Business Profile?

In today’s digital-first world, connecting with customers on platforms they use daily, like WhatsApp, can transform your local business outreach. Integrating WhatsApp with your Google Business Profile (GBP) simplifies communication and boosts visibility and engagement. This guide walks you through adding WhatsApp to GBP, adding a call button (for iOS/Android), and leveraging WhatsApp for customer engagement.

Why Add WhatsApp to Your Google Business Profile?

With over 2 billion users, WhatsApp is a preferred channel for instant communication. By linking it to your GBP:  Meet Customers Where They Are: Offer a familiar, convenient way to connect.  

Boost Search Rankings: Complete GBP profiles with engagement options rank higher.  

Streamline Support: Resolve queries faster via direct messaging. 

I’m getting all my clients from my b2b network (personal social connections), and my business is generating six figures a year. I’m working hard to hit seven figures. From a third-world country, making six figures in US dollars isn’t that easy. But I’m 1000% sure I will crack the code and hit seven figures as soon as I can.

Read: Google Keeps Changing My Business Address: How to Fix It (2025 Guide)

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Step-by-Step: How to Add WhatsApp to Google Business Profile

Generate Your WhatsApp Link

Create a clickable link using WhatsApp’s URL format:
Structure: https://wa.me/[countrycode][phone number] WhatsApp Link Format Guidelines
Example: For a USA number (+1 (555) 123-4567), the link is “https://wa.me/15551234567”.
Alternative Format: You can also use the shortened version without “www” by simply typing wa.me/YourPhoneNumber.

If you don’t have a WhatsApp Business Account, you can create one or use a free link generator tool to simplify the process.

Log Into Google Business Profile: Visit your business Google profile and select your business.
Before adding WhatsApp, ensure you’re using an account with admin access.

Add the WhatsApp Link via “Appointments”: Navigate to the Home tab → Click Appointments or Bookings, and place an order, depending on your business type. There’s no definitive list of Google Business Profile (GBP) categories (Google’s Category Guidelines ) that explicitly support WhatsApp links. Google doesn’t publicly specify which categories have this feature. Google’s Official Guide to GBP Features

The “Appointments” section is key: Categories that offer the “Appointments,” “Schedule,” “Booking,” or “Place an Order” section are most likely to support WhatsApp links. This is because the WhatsApp link is typically added within this section.

Experimentation is necessary: The best way to find out is to try it yourself. If you don’t see the “Appointments” option, try changing your primary business category to a few related options. Some categories might not offer this feature, while others do.

General categories often work: Categories like “Restaurant,” “Retail Store,” “Salon,” or “Consultant” often have the “Appointments” section and thus support WhatsApp links.

Here’s a tip: If you’re having trouble finding a category that supports WhatsApp links, try a more general category that aligns with your business. You can then add a more specific category as an additional category.

Keep in mind that Google may change which categories support this feature over time, so it’s always good to check your profile periodically. Select Add Link → Paste your WhatsApp URL. Save changes.

Test the Link: Once saved, view your Google Business Profile to ensure the WhatsApp link appears correctly.

Customer Experience: When customers click on the link, they should be directed to a WhatsApp chat with your business.

*Pro Tip*: If “Appointments” isn’t visible, adjust your Primary Business Category* (e.g., switch from “Bakery” to “Restaurant”). 

How to Add a Call Button on Google My Business (iOS & Android)

While WhatsApp is a powerful tool for messaging, some customers still prefer traditional phone calls. Here’s how you can add a call button to your Google Business Profile:

Log in to Your Google My Business Account: Ensure your account is verified.

Go to the “Add Update” Section: Click on “Add Update” and select “Add Call Button.”

Enter Your Phone Number: Follow the on-screen instructions to add your business phone number. Include a brief message (e.g., “Call us for instant support!”).

Save and Publish: Once saved, the call button will appear on your profile, allowing customers to call you directly.

Click Add Call Button → Enter your business phone number. Publish the update.

Note: The call button works seamlessly across iOS and Android devices.
Test Across Platforms: Check your profile on both iOS and Android devices to confirm that the call button is functioning as expected.

Using WhatsApp for Customer Engagement on Google My Business

Once your WhatsApp link is live, maximize its potential:

Automate Responses with WhatsApp Business API

Use platforms like respond.io to centralize messages, assign conversations to teams, and automate replies. WhatsApp Automation Guide

Drive Sales & Bookings

Share product catalogs or booking confirmations directly via WhatsApp. Set automated reminders for appointments. 

Gather Feedback

Post-purchase, send a satisfaction survey using WhatsApp templates.

Broadcast Promotions 

Notify opted-in customers about flash sales or events. WhatsApp Business API Documentation

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: “Appointments” section missing.
Fix: Adjust your Primary Business Category (e.g., switch to “Professional Services”).

Problem: WhatsApp link not working.
Fix: Ensure the URL includes the country code and omits spaces/symbols.

Problem: The call button not appearing.
Fix: Verify your GBP and ensure the number is correctly formatted.

WhatsApp vs. Call Buttons: Which Is Better?

WhatsApp: Ideal for detailed inquiries, sharing media, and non-urgent support.
Call Button: Best for quick questions or time-sensitive issues. Use both to cater to diverse customer preferences.

Conclusion

Integrating WhatsApp and a call button into your Google Business Profile bridges the gap between discovery and engagement. By following these steps, you’ll enhance visibility, streamline communication, and build trust with local customers. Stay ahead of competitors by leveraging tools like WhatsApp Business API and respond.io to automate and scale conversations.

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