Step-by-Step: How To Run WhatsApp Ads
The following detailed steps guide you through creating a WhatsApp Status ad campaign using Meta Ads Manager.
Step 1: Open Ads Manager
- Go To Meta Ads Manager
- Log in with your Facebook business account
- Access your dashboard
- Confirm your ad account is active
- Check that your Facebook page is connected
- Verify payment method is added
- Make sure business manager access is enabled
Step 2: Click ‘Create Campaign’
- Start a new campaign
- Click the ‘create’ button
- Choose manual setup
- Move to objective selection
Step 3: Choose Campaign Objective
- Select the correct goal
- Choose messages
- This optimises for conversions
- Avoid traffic and engagement objectives
- Click ‘continue’
Step 4: Select WhatsApp as the Message Destination
- Choose where messages should go
- Select WhatsApp
- Ensure WhatsApp is selected as your only messaging platform before continuing.
- Confirm your WhatsApp business account is visible
Step 5: Connect WhatsApp Number
- If not already connected
- Click connect
- Enter your WhatsApp business number
- Verify via OTP
- Double-check correction number is linked
- Save connection
Step 6: Define Audience Targeting
- Target the right people
- Select location (city, region, or country)
- Choose age range
- Select gender (if needed)
- Add interest-based targeting
- Add behaviours filters
Step 7: Set Budget & Schedule
- Choose a daily or a lifetime budget
- Start with a small test budget
- Set campaign start date
- End date (optional)
- Let it run for at least 5 days
Step 8: Select WhatsApp Status Placement
- Go to Placements
- Select manual placements
- Select WhatsApp status
- Instagram stories (optional)
- Facebook stories (optional)
Step 9: Upload Your Ad Creative
- Go to the ad level
- Upload your image or video (1080*1920)
- Add text and a CTA.
- Publish ad
Pro-Tip: Run WhatsApp Status ads with a WhatsApp Business API number to automate customer chats and manage through shared team inbox.
