Telegram is an instant messaging application that has more than 500 million users. It is known for being the main competitor of WhatsApp (+2,000 million users) and also has multiple functionalities that are ideal for a solid Digital Marketing strategy. But how to use Telegram for business? Keep reading and we will explain it to you in detail.

Telegram registers more downloads than WhatsApp in LATAM

According to a study by Statista (2021), the scandal due to the modification of privacy policies on WhatsApp prompted the download of other applications with message encryption and information protection. Telegram was one of the protagonists, surpassing 500 million users. 

In addition to this, Telegram has very powerful functions to reach your target audience. Below we will discuss in detail how you can take advantage of this tool to boost your business. 

How to use Telegram for business

Telegram and WhatsApp have similar tools, with both you can send instant messages, multimedia files, and voice recordings. But when it comes to additional tools, Telegram is much more powerful.

These are the ones that can help you in your marketing strategy.

1. Cloud computing: Serve your customers from any device

First of all, the application is connected to the cloud and is constantly in sync. For this reason, you can connect from different devices and even from the computer, even if your device is downloaded.

2. Artificial intelligence: automatic contact center

The bots within the application is a great advantage as a contact center because it allows you to create specialized tools for Telegram. Such as accepting payments or other services. This is one of the tools that you can take advantage of the most for your business.

3. Group management

One of the strongest points of the application and marketing tool is the management of groups for dissemination, segmentation and automatic responses. Telegram allows up to 200,000 people per group (much more than WhatsApp, where the limit in groups is 256 members). And there are also public groups.

4. You can create broadcast channels

With this feature, users can subscribe to receive your information. This tool is one-way, works like a newsletter and allows you to create a database for your marketing campaigns. 

5. Bots

Another tool that Telegram has are bots. They are ideal for automating responses and serving your followers or potential buyers. 

6. Conduct surveys

If you want to know the opinion of your consumers or analyze the market, you can also carry out surveys and see the analysis with percentage results.

How to create a Telegram channel?

Step 1: In the create message button, you will see three options: new group, new secret chat, and new channel. Press the third option and a screen will appear confirming your selection. Click on create channel again.

Step 2:  Now enter the name of your business, select a profile photo and write a clear, concise and precise description. Ideally, it should be a short phrase, but one that describes the nature of your business. When you’re done, click the check (✔) at the top right.

Step 3:  The next step is to choose if your channel will be public (anyone can find your group in Telegram searches and join) or private (users only enter with the group link). If you choose the first option, you must add a word for your link (the name of your business, for example). But if you choose the second, the link will be generated automatically and you just have to copy it. When you’re done, click the check (✔).

Step 4: Then your contact book will appear in Telegram, so you can add them as subscribers. Choose who you want or just click the arrow to continue. And ready!

This procedure is very similar to creating groups. 

Tips for your Marketing strategy in Telegram

1. Share valuable content on your channel 

Take advantage of your Telegram channel to share quality information that builds customer loyalty. This social network works perfectly in any part of the funnel , either to generate awareness, promote value offers (content) and also to serve your end customer.

2. Be consistent

We recommend you post at least two or three times a week, exclusive content for your subscribers. 

3. Promote your channel on other social networks

You can include your channel link in the signature of your emails as well. Or use your blog to comment on the information you offer on your channel.

4. Create a bot for your channel (take advantage of all the tools)

A bot can help you maintain activity on your channel and assist your customers. It also uses other tools, such as polls, to add dynamism.