This article shows you how to talk to your leads over WhatsApp from inside LeadTable. You’ll learn when you can write freely and when an approved template is required, how Meta’s 24-hour window works, and how to move between the chat and the lead profile without losing your place. We also explain why these restrictions exist, and how to stay quick and professional with your leads regardless.
Two ways to reach a lead
Automations: messages go out automatically based on triggers → more on that in [Messaging leads & building automations]
Sending manually: you write to leads directly and individually → that’s what this article covers
Meta’s 24-hour rule
Meta only lets businesses write freely to a WhatsApp contact once that contact has messaged them first. The moment they do, a 24-hour window opens in which you can write freely, no template needed. If the lead replies again within that time, the window extends by another 24 hours. Once it runs out, you’re back to approved templates only.
The reasoning: Meta wants to stop leads being buried in messages they never asked for. The rule means active conversations can flow freely, while first contact, or getting back in touch after a longer gap, relies on approved templates.
So when can you write freely?
Lead hasn’t replied yet → templates only, free text is blocked
Lead has replied → the 24-hour window opens and you can write what you like
24 hours have passed → templates only, free text is blocked
How a first conversation goes
Pick one of your approved templates in the chat
Fill in the template’s variables and send it.
As soon as the lead replies, you can carry on chatting freely
Jumping between profile and chat
Click the lead’s name at the top of the chat → the lead profile opens
Leave notes, check details or update the status
Click the WhatsApp button to drop straight back into the chat
You can also chat directly from the lead view.
💡 That way you move between conversation and profile efficiently, without losing the thread.