Step 1: Create Your WhatsApp “Initial” Template (Using GPT Output)

Goal:

Create and submit the Initial WhatsApp template that will be sent automatically after a lead opts in.
(Use the Section 1 — Universal First Message Template generated from the Custom GPT.)

Checkpoint: The Initial template is submitted for Meta approval and ready to be selected inside your workflow.

Step 1.1 — Open WhatsApp Template Builder inside Intellia

1. Log in to your Intellia account

2. Go to Settings → WhatsApp

3. Click Templates

4. This will take you to the WhatsApp Template management screen

Step 1.2 — Choose the Template Type

• Click Create New Template: Blank Template
  

  

• Template Category: Choose Marketing or Utility (based on your use case)

• Template Name: Use a clear identifier

  • Example: 1CC_AI_Initial

• Language: Select your primary language (e.g., English)
  

  

Know the Pricing (Marketing vs Utility)

• Marketing template: $0.0634 per message

• Utility template: $0.0081 per message

 Template messages are used to start or restart a conversation after 24 hours — and they cost money.

 Session messages are follow-up messages within 24 hours of the customer replying to your template — these are free.

Your Intellia Wallet must maintain a minimum balance of $10.00.
This wallet is used to deduct internal fees from your subaccount, such as messaging and usage-related charges. Failure to maintain the minimum balance may result in limited or suspended services.

2. Template Name: Use a clear, short identifier
   Example:
   1CC_AI_Confirmation
   

3. Language: Choose your primary language (e.g., English)

Step 1.3 — Paste the GPT “Section 1” Copy into the Template

Use the GPT output:

SECTION 1 — Universal First Message Template (Automation Message)

Header (Optional)

If your template includes a name variable in the first line, add a header like:

• Hi {{1}}
  Map {{1}} → Contact → First Name
  Add sample content for Meta approval (e.g., “Sarah”).

Variables (Optional):

• {{1}} = First Name

• Keep it exactly {{1}} (no spaces)

• You can reuse {{1}} in both header and body

Body

Paste the exact body copy from the GPT output except the “Hey {{contact.first_name}}”, you can paste it on Header text.

Important:

• If the GPT output uses {{contact.first_name}}, replace it with {{1}} in the WhatsApp template.

• Keep the message short and conversational.

Buttons (If included in GPT output)

If the GPT output includes a confirmation button like [Yes], add it as a button option in the template.

Footer (optional but recommended):
Reply anytime if you need help.

example:
Reply "STOP" to unsubscribe!

Step 1.4 — Review + Submit for Meta Approval

1. Review the final template content

2. Click Create
   

   

1. Wait for Meta approval before using it in automation

Checkpoint: Template status shows Approved (or Pending if just submitted).

What Happens After Submission

• Meta will review your template

• Approval typically takes a few minutes to a few hours (sometimes up to 24 hours)

• Once approved, you can select this template inside your workflows

Key Rules (to avoid rejection)

• Keep language simple + conversational (avoid spammy or overly salesy wording)

• Avoid excessive punctuation, symbols, or ALL CAPS

• Don’t include unsafe links in the first template message

• Always use Meta placeholders ({{1}}, {{2}}, etc.) — don’t rename them

Frequently Asked Questions

1) Why do I still need a template?
Meta requires the first message to be a pre-approved template before automation can send it.

2) What if the GPT output includes variables like {{contact.first_name}}?
Replace it with {{1}} in the WhatsApp template, then map {{1}} → Contact → First Name in Intellia.

3) Do I need to edit the GPT copy?
No — paste it as-is unless you’re correcting the webinar name/date/time.