How to Create Your First Automation

Two ways to start

Start with a template from Automation Templates for a pre-filled flow, or choose Build your own to configure each step manually.

The automation builder

1. 1

   Choose your trigger

   Comment-to-DM (comments on a post or reel), Story Reply (reactions or replies to a story), or Keyword DM Reply (incoming DMs with a keyword).

2. 2

   Set your keywords

   Add up to 20 keywords such as LINK, SHOP, or INFO. Use Any word to trigger on every comment or DM. Keywords are case-insensitive.

3. 3

   Add an optional pre-DM step

   Optionally add an opening message, follow gate, or email gate before the main DM. For your first automation, keep this simple and skip it.

4. 4

   Write your DM message

   Write a short, helpful message and add your link. Optionally set a public comment reply. Save and toggle the automation to Active.

How to test your automation

1. 1

   Use a second account

   Automations do not trigger from the account that owns the automation.

2. 2

   Comment your keyword

   On the target post, comment the keyword you configured in the builder.

3. 3

   Check the DM

   The DM should arrive within seconds. If not, review Analytics or Activity for delivery details.

You cannot reliably test from your own Instagram account.

Tips for your first automation

• Start with one keyword and one post.
• Use clear keywords like LINK or INFO.
• Review performance after the first few triggers.