WhatsApp Broadcast List for Your Salon: How to Use It
A broadcast list sends the same message to many clients, each in their own chat. Only people who saved your number get it. It works for promotions and general announcements, not for appointment reminders.
By the Citalu team
What a broadcast list is
It sends the same message to several contacts at once. It's not a group: each client gets it in their chat with you and can't see who else received it.
Who gets the message
Only clients who saved your number. That's why it helps to ask new clients to add you to their contacts on their first visit.
Promotions you can copy
"Hi, this week I have [service] for [price], Monday through Thursday. Book your spot here: [your link]." Another example: "Hi, my December schedule is open. To lock in your date, pick your time here: [your link]."
How to avoid annoying clients
Send only what's useful to that client. If many people report your number, WhatsApp may limit your account.
Business broadcasts: the paid option
In some countries, WhatsApp Business shows Business broadcasts. They're paid per message, and the price depends on the country. They're not the same as the classic list. Before you send, check which option you see and what it costs on your account.
How to tell if it worked
Write down which message you sent and how many appointments it brought in. If a promotion brought no bookings, change the offer before you send another. If a client asks to stop getting messages, take them off the list that same day.
List, group or status: which to use
A list reaches each client in their own chat and works for personal announcements. A group lets everyone see each other and talk, so it exposes their numbers. A status is only seen by people who open it: use it to show your work, not for an important notice.
How to split your clients into lists
One list for everyone ends up sending messages that don't help anyone. Split by service: nails, lashes or waxing. That way a lash promotion only reaches clients who get lashes done. Keep a few lists and update them when new clients come in.
What a promotion should include
Say what you're offering, until when, and how to book. Put the price or the discount in the first line. End with your link so clients can book without messaging you. In Citalu you can create the promotion with a code that the client uses when booking.
Why it doesn't work for appointment reminders
The text is the same for everyone, so it doesn't include each client's time. For that, use personal reminders, like the ones CITU sends on the Estudio and Salón plans.
Messages to copy
Replace what is in brackets and send it on WhatsApp.
Hi! I have open times on [day] and [day]. If you'd like to come in, pick yours here: [your link].
Hi! I now offer [new service] at [your business]. It's [price] and takes [time]. Book here: [your link].
Hi! Starting [date] I'm taking appointments from [time] to [time]. If you already have an appointment, it stays the same. See the new times here: [your link].
Hi! I'll be on vacation from [date] to [date]. If you need an appointment before then, book here: [your link].
Hi, [name]. I send my promotions here. If you'd like to get them, save this number. If you'd rather not, just tell me, no problem.
The differences at a glance
| Point | Broadcast list | WhatsApp group |
|---|---|---|
| Who gets it | Anyone who saved your number | Anyone in the group |
| They see each other | No | Yes |
| Where they reply | In their chat with you | In the group, where everyone sees it |
| Good for | Promotions and announcements | Communities and classes |
How to put it into practice
- In WhatsApp Business, open the Chats menu and find New broadcast.
- Choose the clients who want to get your news.
- Write a short message with your booking link.
Frequently asked questions
Can clients see who else received it?
No. Each one gets it in their chat with you.
Why don't some clients get it?
Because they haven't saved your number.
How do I make a broadcast list in WhatsApp Business?
Open the Chats menu, tap New broadcast and choose your contacts. Then write as you would in any chat.
How do I send a broadcast without paying?
Use the classic list and send it to clients who saved your number. If the app shows you a cost, it's a business broadcast.
Do replies go to the whole list?
No. Each client replies in their chat with you, and you answer only that client.
Does WhatsApp Business charge for broadcasts?
The classic list is free. Business broadcasts are paid per message, and the price depends on the country.
Why can't I create a broadcast list?
Your version of the app may show another option, like Business broadcasts. Update the app and check the Chats menu. If it doesn't appear, your account may not have it available.
How many contacts can a list have?
The classic list allows up to 256 contacts. If you have more clients, split them into several lists.
Is a broadcast list free?
The classic list in the app is. Business broadcasts and messages sent through the official channel have a cost.
Bring that order to your schedule
Try Citalu with your services and hours. You get 14 days free to see if it fits your business.