How to Set Up an Auto Message on Instagram for New Followers?

Your Instagram gains a new follower, then silence. No welcome. No connection. No second chance. What if that one Message you never sent just cost you a loyal fan, a client, or a sale?

The truth is that first impressions aren’t optional; they’re instant. Turn on Instagram welcome messages for new followers and stop letting golden moments slip away. Automatically turn cold followers into warm leads.

Curious how? Keep reading “How to Set Up an Auto Message on Instagram for New Followers?” before your next follower ghosts you.

What Are Types of Automated Messages on Instagram?

Automated Instagram messages are pre-set responses that engage users upon interaction, such as follows, direct messages (DMs), and mentions. They help businesses efficiently manage communication. These messages serve various purposes, from building rapport to providing quick customer support. Here are some common types:

• Welcome Messages for New Followers: These messages aim to create a positive first impression. For example, a personalized welcome message for new followers might say, “Hello [Name]! Welcome to our page” or “Thank you for coming, and please feel free to ask any questions you may have. This helps boost follower interaction on Instagram from the start, and it’s one of the first things many businesses consider when setting up an auto message on Instagram.
• Gratitude Notes: When users engage with your content by commenting, sharing, or making a purchase, a simple “thank you” can go a long way. An example could be, “We value your support and are grateful that you mentioned us in your story.”
• Acknowledge New Messages: These messages inform users that their Message has been received and when they can expect a response. For instance: “We appreciate your message and will respond to you within a day.” This is a crucial aspect of social media customer service.
• Customer Support Messages: For frequently asked questions, automated responses can quickly provide answers or direct users to relevant customer service channels. For instance: “Hello! If you have any questions about your order, please visit [website link] or select Support to initiate a chat with our team.”
• Promotional or Discount Messages: To entice new followers or reward existing ones, you can offer exclusive deals. For instance: “Hello, this is WELCOME10, a 10% discount code for your first purchase as a thank you for following us.” This helps to implement a good Instagram messaging strategy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up Automated Messages on Instagram

Automating messages on Instagram can save significant time and effort, helping you interact with new followers, offer customer service, and increase your brand’s visibility. While Instagram doesn’t have a native feature for sending automated messages directly to new followers, there are tools and approved methods you can use to set up an automated message on Instagram securely.

· Using Instagram’s Built-in Features for Instagram Auto Reply

Despite Instagram’s lack of fully automated direct messaging for new followers, several features can help streamline your communication with them.

• Instagram Quick Replies: This feature enables businesses with Instagram Business or Creator accounts to save and reuse pre-written responses. While not entirely automated, Instagram Quick Replies expedites your messaging by allowing you to send customized answers to common inquiries or new followers quickly.

1. Navigate to ‘Settings’ → ‘Profile.’
2. Choose ‘Business’.
3. Select ‘Saved Replies’.
4. Create a shortcut (max 15 characters) for your Message.
5. Activate ‘Response Suggestions’ to automate commonly used responses.

You can also use the FAQ feature to create a welcome message that automatically greets users who contact you, which is a simple way to set up an auto message on Instagram for initial interactions.

• Facebook Business Suite or Meta Business Suite: Since Meta owns Instagram, businesses can leverage the Meta Business Suite to automate answers to frequently asked questions and manage Instagram DMs effectively.

1. Connect your Instagram account to Meta Business Suite: Log in to https://business.facebook.com/, go to Settings > Instagram Accounts, click Connect, and log in with your Instagram credentials.

• Select DMs on Instagram → Settings → Tools.
• Enable message access by selecting ‘Message Controls.’
• Activate ‘Instant Replies’:
• Access Inbox Automation by opening the ‘Meta Business Suite’ website: https://business.facebook.com/
• Turn on Instant Reply to customize your response (e.g., “Thanks for following! Please contact us with any questions.”). This is an excellent example of an automated welcome message that you can set up on Instagram.
• Save your settings.
• Configure Away Messages:
• Select Automation → Away Message.
• Choose Instagram and Messenger and configure automated responses for when you’re unavailable.
• Edit and save the Message, which will be automatically sent to users who message you on Instagram when you’re not there. This serves as an effective auto-responder for Instagram direct messages.

Leveraging Third-Party Tools for Direct Message Automation

For more robust Instagram DM automation, particularly for new followers, you’ll need third-party tools that comply with Instagram’s guidelines. These tools enable you to set up an auto message on Instagram triggered by specific actions, such as story replies, comments, and follows, greatly enhancing your Instagram engagement tips.

· ManyChat (Approved by Instagram)

ManyChat is a top tool for automating Instagram direct messages within the platform’s guidelines. It allows you to create Automation triggered by comments, new followers and replies to stories.

1. Connect your Instagram account and register for ManyChat. Sign up at https://manychat.com/, navigate to Settings > Instagram, and follow the prompts to log in and grant the necessary permissions.
2. Go to your ManyChat dashboard. On the left-hand sidebar, click on Automation. Select New Rule under Automation Rules.
3. Create a trigger for the New Follower action (or other actions such as replying to a story or comment).
4. Create your unique Message, such as “Hello [Name], thank you for following! Please let us know how we can assist you.” This allows for personalized welcome messages.
5. Save and activate the Automation.
6. The automated response will be sent to new followers via Direct Message (DM) on Instagram. ManyChat makes it easy to set up an auto message on Instagram for these specific triggers.

· MobileMonkey

It’s another effective tool for setting up chatbots and automating direct messages on Instagram. Based on different triggers, it facilitates the creation of tailored conversations with new followers.

1. Create a MobileMonkey account and connect your Instagram account: To connect your Instagram account to MobileMonkey, sign up at https://mobilemonkey.com/, login, and go to Settings > Instagram. Follow the prompts to log in and grant permissions.
2. Log in, go to the Chatbot Builder, and create a chatbot flow with an automated welcome message for new followers.
3. Set up automation triggers, such as when someone follows or comments on your story.
4. Activate the flow and personalize your Message.
5. The automated response will be sent to new followers via Direct Message (DM) on Instagram. This is another great way to set up an auto message on Instagram.

· Chatfuel

Businesses looking to create more engaging Instagram bots will find Chatfuel a great resource. It can generate automated dialogues that captivate new followers and promote additional engagements.

1. Create an account with Chatfuel and link your Instagram account. To do so, sign up at https://chatfuel.com, log in, and follow the steps in the “Channels” section to connect to your Instagram account.
2. Create a bot flow that includes a greeting for new brand followers.
3. Modify triggers to send particular DMs (such as new follows).
4. Customize your answers and enable Automation.
5. After customizing your answers and enabling Automation, the automated response will be sent directly via Instagram DM to new followers or users who interact with your Instagram account based on your triggers. These social media automation tools can significantly increase engagement among Instagram followers.

Wrapping up

Setting Instagram to send automated messages to new followers is essential for growing your online presence. It allows you to warmly welcome them, initiate conversation, and build rapport, fostering a thriving community.

Knowing “How to set up an auto message on Instagram for new followers?” for new followers can significantly impact your Instagram messaging strategy, leading to higher engagement, increased brand loyalty, and, ultimately, a more vibrant and connected audience.

What’s one question you have about setting up your first auto-message? How do you envision using an automated welcome message to build stronger connections with your audience? What kind of content would you include in your auto-message to provide immediate value?

How can I set up an auto message for new followers on Instagram?

You can use third-party tools like ManyChat or MobileMonkey. These platforms enable you to create automated welcome messages that are sent directly to new followers via direct messages.

Are there any built-in features for auto messaging on Instagram?

Currently, Instagram does not offer a built-in feature for auto-messaging. Users must rely on third-party automation tools to create and manage automated responses.

Is it against Instagram’s policy to use auto messaging?

Using auto messaging is not against Instagram’s policy as long as you comply with their guidelines. Avoid spamming users and ensure your messages provide value to maintain a positive engagement.

What should I include in my welcome Message for new followers?

Your welcome Message should be friendly and engaging. Include a thank you for following, a brief introduction of your brand, and a call to action, such as visiting your website or checking out your latest products.

Can I personalize my auto messages on Instagram?

Yes, many automation tools allow you to personalize your auto messages by including the followers’ names or referencing their interests based on their profile, making the interaction feel more genuine.