Step 7: Creating Message Templates and Scheduling Automation

WhatsApp API has rules about when you can message users. Templates and automation help you manage this and send follow-ups effectively.

Templates & Automation Video

A. Understanding the 24-Hour Rule

• If a user messages you, you can reply freely with any content within 24 hours of their last message
• After 24 hours of no interaction from the user, you can only send messages using pre-approved templates

B. Creating Message Templates

1. Navigate to Templates: In ABC Sales AI, go to the "Templates" tab
2. Add New Template: Click the "Add" button
3. Define Template:

- Name: Choose a clear, descriptive name (e.g., "Follow Up")

- Content: Write your message

- _Example:_ "Hello \{{1}}\, our appointment is on \{{2}}\?"

- Variables (Optional): Insert placeholders like \{{1}}\, \{{2}}\ for dynamic content (e.g., customer name, time)

- Language: Select your message language

- Media (Optional): Add images (JPEG/PNG, max 5MB) or videos (MP4, max 16MB)

1. Submit for Approval: Click "Add" to save & send your template to Meta for approval

- Approval Time: Ranges from 1-2 minutes for established accounts to several days for new accounts

- Monitor the status ("Pending," "Approved," or "Rejected")

C. Creating an Automation

1. Navigate to Automation: Go to the "Automation" tab: https://app.abcsalesbot.com/automations
2. Add New Automation: Click the "Add" button
3. Name Automation: Choose a descriptive name (e.g., "Initial Follow Up Sequence"). Make sure "Enabled" is checked, then click "Create"
4. Add Automation Steps (Messages):

- Click the "+" button in your new automation

- Name the Step: Choose a clear name (e.g., "Day 1 Follow Up")

- Choose Template: Select the message template you created

- Map Variables: For each template variable, either select a dynamic field from ABC Sales AI or enter a static value

D. Adding Leads to an Automation

1. Navigate to the "Leads" tab
2. Select Lead(s): Check the boxes next to the leads you want to add
3. Click "Bulk Operation"
4. Select "Subscribe Automation"
5. Choose the automation you created
6. Submit

Track scheduled messages and their status in either the lead's "Details" page or the "Inbox."