LeadPilot setup guide
LeadPilot can connect quickly when your Instagram or WhatsApp account is already set up correctly. This guide shows what you need before connecting.
Simple version
Instagram is usually quick if your professional account is linked to a Facebook Page. WhatsApp is quick if your WhatsApp Business setup is already approved. If anything is missing, LeadPilot will guide you — but setup may take longer than 60 seconds.
Instagram: what you need
An Instagram Professional account, not a personal account
Go to your Instagram settings → Account → Switch to Professional Account if you haven't already.
The Instagram account must be linked to a Facebook Page
This is done in Instagram settings → Account → Linked Accounts, or through Meta Business Suite.
You need access to the Facebook account that manages that Page
You'll need to log in with it during the connection flow.
You need to approve the permissions when LeadPilot asks
LeadPilot will ask for permission to send and receive messages on your behalf. You need to accept.
If these are already in place, Instagram usually connects in under 60 seconds.
WhatsApp: what you need
A WhatsApp Business account
Download the WhatsApp Business app and set up your business profile if you haven't already.
A phone number that can be used for business messaging
This number will be used by the bot to send and receive messages. It can't also be active on a personal WhatsApp.
Access to complete the 360dialog connection flow
LeadPilot uses 360dialog to connect to WhatsApp. You'll be guided through their short setup during onboarding.
In some cases, Meta/WhatsApp approval may be required before the number is ready
Meta reviews new WhatsApp Business accounts. This usually happens automatically, but can take time if it's a brand new number.
If your WhatsApp Business setup is already approved, connection is quick. If you are starting from scratch, setup may take longer.
Common questions
Can I use my personal Instagram account?
No — LeadPilot needs a Professional account (Business or Creator). Personal accounts don't have the messaging permissions LeadPilot requires. Switching is free and takes about a minute in the Instagram app.
What if I don't have a Facebook Page linked to Instagram?
You'll need to create or link one. Go to Instagram → Settings → Account → Linked Accounts → Facebook. If you don't have a Facebook Page, you can create a simple one — it doesn't need to be active or public.
Can I use my existing WhatsApp number?
Only if it's not currently active on a personal WhatsApp. A number can't be on both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business at the same time. Many businesses use a separate SIM or a virtual number for their business messages.
What is 360dialog?
It's the service LeadPilot uses to connect to the official WhatsApp Business API. When you connect WhatsApp, you'll go through a short 360dialog setup — it's straightforward and guided.
Will LeadPilot reply to every message, including existing conversations?
LeadPilot replies to new incoming messages on your connected channel. It won't go back and reply to old conversations.
Heads up
If anything is missing or needs setting up, LeadPilot will tell you at the point of connection. Nothing is set live until you complete the full setup — you won't accidentally go live half-configured.