✍️ WhatsApp
How to create a WhatsApp link with a pre-filled message
When a chat opens with an empty message field, many people do not know what to write and leave. A pre-filled message removes that awkward pause and can also tell you where the person found you.
4 min readUpdated
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A pre-filled message is text that appears in the conversation field when someone opens your link. The person only needs to tap Send. It is not sent automatically, so the sender remains in control, but it removes nearly all the effort of starting the conversation.
Why pre-filled messages work
- It removes the work of composing a message. An empty chat can feel like a blank page.
- It identifies the source when the text says something like, “I saw the sign in your window.”
- It gives you useful context before you reply: product, size, branch, or preferred time.
- It filters inquiries. Mentioning the specific service reduces unrelated questions.
How to write a message that works
- 1
Write from the customer's point of view
“Hi, I'd like information about X” works. “Welcome to our company” does not, because the customer would be the one saying it.
- 2
Keep it to one line
A long paragraph feels intrusive, so many people delete it before sending. If they do, you lose the context.
- 3
Include where the person came from
Add “I found you on Instagram” or “I scanned the QR code in the store.” It gives you attribution for free.
- 4
Do not include personal data
Never pre-fill a name, email address, or phone number. It feels invasive, and you do not have that information anyway.
Pre-filled message examples by industry
| Industry | Pre-filled message |
|---|---|
| Retail / clothing | Hi, I saw this on Instagram and would like to ask about sizes and availability. |
| Restaurant | Hi, I'd like to place an order for pickup. |
| Real estate | Hi, I'm interested in the property from the listing. Is it still available? |
| Services / trades | Hi, I need a quote. Here's what I need: |
| Clinic / appointments | Hi, I'd like to book an appointment. |
| Education / courses | Hi, I'd like information about the course and its start dates. |
Use a different link in every location
Change one phrase based on where you publish the link, such as “I saw the sign” or “I found you on Instagram.” Each incoming inquiry then identifies its own channel without requiring another tool.
Generate your link with a message
Enter the number and message to generate a short link. The text has to be encoded in the URL, which makes the unshortened version too unwieldy to publish.
Technical details worth knowing
- The official format is https://wa.me/number?text=message. Use the international-format number without +, spaces, hyphens, or parentheses.
- You can also use https://wa.me/?text=message, which opens a contact picker so the person can choose who should receive the text.
- The message is URL-encoded. The generator correctly converts spaces, accented characters, and emojis for you.
- The message is never sent automatically; it always waits for the person to tap Send.
- Short messages are easier to understand and edit. WhatsApp's click-to-chat guide does not publish a specific limit for this field.
Frequently asked questions
Does the message send automatically?
No. It appears in the text field, and the person can send, edit, or delete it. WhatsApp does not allow a link to send a message automatically.
Can I use emojis and accented characters?
Yes, both work. They are encoded inside the URL, making it longer and giving you another reason to shorten the link.
Can I change the message after publishing the link?
Yes, if the link is in your account and your plan permits editing. Change the message and the same short link, already published or printed, will open with the new text.
Is there a character limit for the message?
The official click-to-chat guide does not publish a specific limit. A short sentence is best: it is easier to understand, creates a shorter URL, and remains easy for the sender to edit.
Does it work on iPhone and Android?
Yes. It also works in WhatsApp Web and the desktop app. If WhatsApp is not installed, the web version opens.
Make it yours and track every click
Create a free account so your links do not expire and you can measure country, device, and source.