I run ads for a small fashion brand in Nairobi and most customers order via DM then pay on delivery. Google Analytics shows traffic but not which post actually led to the sale. We're weighing unique promo codes against simply asking customers how they found us. What's worked for you when the sale happens offline?
Promo codes are great because they tell you the source without relying on memory, but the delivery moment is your real goldmine. A quick 'hey, what made you pick us?' as you hand over the order gives you richer context than a code ever will. Maybe test both: codes for tracking, and that one-line question for the why behind the buy.
Lydia's suggestion is solid. Codes plus the delivery question make a strong combo, but what helped a client of mine was unique short links per post that forward to your DM or WhatsApp. Then you track the click-to-conversation path, and the code or question just closes the loop. On the practical side, unique promo codes also help you catch duplicate or fake orders, so they're worth the setup. Consider tagging each order in WhatsApp Business with its source while you're at it, it beats scrolling your feed later.
Solid suggestions already. For a small brand, even just writing the promo code or post name on the delivery receipt or M-Pesa message note (if you send a payment request) can help your rider or you match the order back to the ad. Low-tech but works when bundles are tight and you're tracking on a phone.
Great thread. Codes, delivery questions and tracked links between them cover most of the bases. One next step: set up a simple Google Sheet with columns for source (promo code or link), order value and delivery status, then share it with your rider so they log each drop as it happens. It turns scattered DMs into something you can actually review weekly.
You've got a full toolbox already from the replies above. One thing that's worked for a friend running a similar setup in Mombasa: they set up a simple WhatsApp group with their rider, and the rider just sends a quick voice note or text like "Order #12, code 'summer50'" after each delivery. Low bandwidth, no extra apps, and you can review it while on a matatu. Combines well with the M-Pesa note trick too.
Solid suggestions. One thing that's helped my clients is getting the rider to write the source (post name or code) on the delivery receipt or M-Pesa note, then send you a quick photo. That way you match the sale without relying on the customer to remember. And when you ask at delivery, keep it natural like 'what made you stop scrolling?' you'd be surprised what people share.