A Simple Way to Welcome and Connect (Without Spamming)
There’s a new feature available on Instagram, you can now automatically send a direct message to someone as soon as they follow you.
This means you don’t need to wait or message people one by one. You can set it up once, and each new follower gets a warm welcome from you straight away.
This is now possible using a tool called ManyChat, which works with Instagram to make this happen.
Done well, this isn’t about selling, it’s about starting conversations, building trust, and helping your new followers feel at home on your page.
What Is an Automatic DM?
It’s a message that gets sent instantly to someone after they follow you.
You write it in advance, and a tool like ManyChat sends it out for you.
Think of it like a friendly hello, just like you’d say if someone walked into your shop or joined your mailing list.
Why This Is Useful
Most people who follow you are most interested right at the start. They’ve just found you and want to know more.
An automatic message is your chance to:
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Say hello
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Offer something helpful
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Guide them to the next step
When done with care, it helps you turn a new follower into a real connection, or even a future customer.
Three Ways to Use It Well (Without Annoying Your Followers)
1. Offer Something Helpful
Send them something useful — like a free guide, video or blog post.
Example:
“Hi! Thanks for following. Would you like my free guide on Instagram tips? Just reply ‘yes’ and I’ll send it over.”
This helps your followers straight away and keeps the message friendly.
2. Start a Conversation
Ask a simple question to get to know them better.
Example:
“Welcome! Are you here for tips on growing your Instagram or help with content ideas?”
This makes the message feel personal and gives them a reason to reply.
3. Invite Them to Join Something
Let them know if you have something coming up, like a free event, a group or a newsletter.
Example:
“I run a free monthly social media session would you like me to send you the details for the next one?”
This shows what you offer without being pushy.
How to Set It Up
To use this feature, you’ll need to create a free or paid account on ManyChat and connect it to your Instagram.
Once you’re set up, you can choose the “Instagram Follow” trigger, and write your message.
It only takes a few minutes, and once done, it works in the background for you.
In Summary
This is a great new feature that helps you stay connected with your audience, even when you’re not online.
It’s a simple way to welcome people, share something useful, and encourage replies without feeling salesy.
And if you get it right, your new followers will feel like they’ve joined a community, not just clicked a button.
Need help setting this up or writing your first message?
Come and join us in the ZC Social Media Growth Academy we cover features like this and show you how to use them in a way that works for your business.
To your successes,
Zoe