What are WhatsApp templates

To send messages from a WhatsApp business account, Meta requires that you use pre-approved WhatsApp templates. These templates are required by Meta for a few reasons:

to ensure messages comply with WhatsApp policies
to prevent spam messages
to facilitate bulk messaging
to send consistent messages

Templates can contain variable content fields, so you can reuse a template with the same basic structure but change the variable copy when you create your campaign in Movement.

There are four different template types that Movement currently supports: text, call to action, quick reply and media. These are explained in more detail in the table below, followed by examples of each template type. When you're ready to create templates, use our guide on how to create and use WhatsApp templates here.

Template types Movement currently supports:

Template type What to submit Example Text
A simple text template, which can include copy and links. This is the most flexible option and can be used when you have more than one link to include.

Template copy with example content for each variable

Hi {{1}} - Can you help us {{2}}?

Please send any videos or pictures of {{3}} so that {{4}}.

{{1}} Nat
{{2}} bring our event to life 😀
{{3}} the event
{{4}} we can celebrate it

Call to action
This template includes a button that recipients can tap to take a specific action on any website, including Movement, such as sign a petition or share a social post.

Template copy with example content for each variable
Button copy (no variables)
URL for your action page or website

Tip: You can include a variable at the end of your link, so you can reuse the template across campaigns, for example: https://www.yourmovement.org/{{1}} {{1}} BREAKING: Urgent update: {{2}}
Take action now to {{3}} and forward to a friend

{{1}} ‼️
{{2}} Have you heard the latest news?
{{3}} demand an end to this

Quick reply
This allows recipients to select from up to 10 pre-filled answers rather than type an open response. This is the best format for surveys and can be used to increase reply rates in peer to peer campaigns.
Meta sets some limitations for quick response survey templates:

Maximum of 10 options for the quick reply
Max character limit of 25 for each reply option
Variables are allowed and count as 1 character

Template copy with example content for each variable including pre-filled answer options

Hi {{1}}, would you like to take part in our annual survey?

Pre-filled answer options:
Yes please
Not right now
Can I have some more info

{{1}} Nat

Media
Media templates allow for images, videos and sound files (voice notes) from your local server to be included in your WhatsApp messages.

Template copy with example content for each variable
URL for your media (image, video or voice note recording) hosted in an online media library

Note: For full instructions on sending media via WhatsApp, including the specific template requirements, see Sending media with WhatsApp.

Finally, {{1}} Nat’s on the frontline of using tech to amplify worker voices and drive systemic change. She’ll {{2}}

{{1}} Nat Whalley - Co-founder of Movement and digital campaigner.
{{2}} share her work empowering millions with the tools to organise and create lasting change.
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