Manually responding to purchase inquiries hours later is ineffective because social media users' interest is fleeting. An automated, instant response strikes while the user's emotional impulse and buying intent are at their peak, dramatically increasing the likelihood of conversion before they scroll past and forget.

Instead of a simple link, use Instagram Stories to ask followers to DM you a specific keyword to get access to something (like an event). This increases replies, which boosts your Story's visibility in the algorithm. You can then automate the follow-up with tools like ManyChat.

Leverage tools like ManyChat on Trial Reels to convert engaged non-followers. When a user comments for a free resource, the automation first checks if they follow you. If they don't, it sends a message prompting them to follow before delivering the requested item, creating a powerful and direct follower conversion mechanism.

A new ManyChat integration allows auto-DMs to new followers. The most effective strategy is to resist the urge to sell immediately. Instead, use this feature to express gratitude and start a conversation, capitalizing on the peak moment of a user's interest to build a long-term relationship.

Instead of using link stickers, prompt viewers to reply to an Instagram Story with a specific word via DM. This direct engagement signals relevance to the algorithm, increasing story visibility, while also creating a direct, conversational path to conversion.

The 'STD' method boosts story performance by combining three elements. A Single story focuses attention. A Text-Heavy format increases view duration as people pause to read. A DM Automation call-to-action drives on-platform engagement, which the algorithm rewards more than off-platform link clicks.

Instead of directing users to a link, ask them to comment a keyword. This triggers a DM automation that delivers the link directly, boosting post engagement for the algorithm and providing a frictionless user experience.

Sam Vanderweehlen uses ManyChat to automate Instagram DMs. When a user comments a keyword, they instantly receive the promised content. The bot then immediately follows up, asking them to subscribe to her newsletter and capturing their email directly in the DM conversation, eliminating friction.

To achieve maximum story views, post a Single, Text-heavy story and let all others expire. The high text volume increases watch time as users read. The final and most crucial step is a call-to-action using DM automation (the 'D'), which generates DMs—the most potent form of engagement for boosting story reach.