Since its debut in 2011, WeChat has made a profound mark on the global tech ecosystem.
Messaging remains an essential feature, enabling users to exchange text, images and voice messages with each other as well as share files or five second videos.
Brands, media and businesses often create official accounts similar to Facebook pages so subscribers can subscribe and receive push notifications on a regular basis.
Messaging
Since 2011, Tencent’s WeChat has established itself as an unparalleled social media/business communication platform in China. Offering features not found elsewhere and essential tools for conducting business there. Furthermore, WeChat boasts a large international user base which makes it a lucrative marketing avenue for companies.
weChat can be used for messaging, voice and video calls (similar to Skype), e-commerce, telemedicine and ride-hailing services. Furthermore, it has a feature called “Moments”, similar to Facebook News Feed with photos or 15 second videos and music posted for all WeChat contacts to view and comment upon. Users can create privacy settings so their Moments posts will only appear visible to certain groups of friends.
In addition to messaging capabilities, WeChat provides an interactive game console offering various games; QR code payments to make purchases in stores and restaurants; travel ticketing service; food delivery service and live streaming capabilities. Furthermore, the “Mini programs” feature allows developers to create lightweight applications capable of performing different functions, such as food ordering or travel bookings.
To create a weChat account, a user will first need to enter their phone number and create a password. WeChat will then send a verification code directly to their phone number which can then be entered into the weChat app for account creation. A QR code will also be generated so the user can scan their QR code and authenticate their weChat account before businesses begin engaging with consumers via weChat.
Payment
WeChat Payment is the Chinese mobile wallet integrated into WeChat, China’s ubiquitous “App For Everything.” Users connect their bank accounts or credit cards with WeChat Wallet before using it to pay for goods and services or transfer money – over one billion people worldwide use WeChat Payment every month!
WeChat provides businesses with a set of application programming interfaces (APIs) they can integrate into their operations to streamline accounting and inventory management processes, as well as loyalty programs designed to build customers who will return again and again for repeat business.
WeChat Pay stands out from other online payment platforms by providing various methods for in-store payments. Designed to make payments seamless for shoppers and merchants, WeChat Pay’s system makes payment simple for both parties involved – customers can pay with QR codes or digital red packets while merchants can easily accept payments on a POS terminal or mobile phone.
At checkout, when customers select WeChat Pay, the system redirects them to an app to complete payment verification and complete payment – returning the customer back to their merchant app once complete. This method is ideal for offline retailers and service-oriented businesses like restaurants, hospitals, schools and cinemas.
To use WeChat Pay, shoppers need a verified WeChat account with valid passport or driver’s license data and Chinese mobile number. After reading and accepting WeChat Terms of Service and Privacy Policies, users must add bank cards using “Add Card.” WeChat supports most mainland Chinese banks as well as mainstream overseas bank cards for adding bank cards; its security system features advanced encryption standards as well as dedicated risk control measures in order to safeguard sensitive information.
Shopping
WeChat has evolved into an independent ecosystem where users can talk, shop and work without leaving the app itself. It serves as an operating system which supports digital payment services, streaming videos and shopping – even ride hailing!
WeChat’s e-commerce features are particularly advantageous to brands looking to reach mobile audiences effectively and directly. In-app payments, loyalty programs and an enhanced user experience create an exceptional user journey that drives sales conversions.
Many Chinese consumers also prefer purchasing products via WeChat over online because they feel safer using its native security features and have grown accustomed to purchasing through mini programs and using WeChat Pay at checkout.
Due to its immense success, weChat e-commerce has inspired some retailers to move away from ultra-dominant Tmall and JD platforms and establish their own closed-loop WeChat mini programs for transactions. For instance, Uniqlo previously directed customers from its mini program on WeChat back to Tmall. However, starting in November 2018, all transactions would now be completed internally by Uniqlo itself.
Establishing a WeChat shop for your brand can be made simpler through third-party shop management systems such as WeiDian or Youzan/MengDian; other solutions exist as well, like Youzan and MengDian that serve similar functions. Alternatively, registering the shop requires either getting local business license or borrowing one from another company.
No matter the approach taken, creating captivating content for WeChat e-commerce success is of utmost importance. An appealing profile picture, clear bio that captures brand’s essence, keywords that correspond to search terms, as well as regular posting schedules optimized for peak hours are key components to maximizing engagement and traffic growth.
Groups
weChat provides users with an impressive feature: group chats. Whether private or public, these groups allow people to connect with those sharing similar interests – whether this means job opportunities, potential clients or simply enjoying each other’s company. This feature can especially come in handy for expats requiring friends or connections in a foreign country.
Wechat provides groups with various features, including search, notifications and filters. Users can add keywords to their chats in order to quickly locate information they require when needed – an especially useful feature for business owners looking to ensure their content reaches the intended audiences.
WeChat provides another great advantage by enabling users to add groups directly to their contacts list, making it easier to access any group you’ve created or joined quickly and manage conversations more easily. Plus, keeping tabs on groups you participate in allows you to track messages without missing important updates!
WeChat groups not only provide an easy way for colleagues and friends to keep in touch, but are also an invaluable way for businesses to promote their products and services. Many brands utilize WeChat groups as a channel to inform customers of exclusive discounts or promotions–these messages appear as though coming directly from an individual rather than the brand itself!
China Admissions has established a WeChat group to aid international students searching for Chinese universities and applications. The WeChat group serves as a platform for discussion and networking – often more effective than using Facebook or other social media sites for connecting with prospective students.
Events
Integrating WeChat into your event can help reach a wider audience in China, where it is the primary messaging app. Furthermore, adding WeChat increases customer satisfaction by giving attendees their preferred way to contact you. To get started with WeChat integration at your event, sign up for Boei (a free service that integrates Wechat). After creating an account there, simply follow instructions to connect your Wechat account with your website.
WeChat provides many features to promote and manage events on its platform, such as reports that detail registrants and attendees. Furthermore, its broadcast message sending log allows you to see when messages were sent out on WeChat; additionally you can filter this list based on keyword or sender.
Use the WeChat Referrals Report to measure how successful your social media campaign is performing. It displays a ranking list of WeChat users who have shared your posters to invite friends. To access it, select Dashboard then WeChat Referrals Report; search using name to locate specific campaigns among them.
WeChat can assist your offline event promotion efforts by creating a QR code your followers can scan to receive PPT slides. Furthermore, setting keywords can encourage engagement by offering rewards or prizes to those who enter correct codes – an excellent way of building O2O interactions and increasing attendance rates at events.
