TL;DR
Click New Automation, pick a template or build from scratch, set a trigger and keywords, write your DM with a link, then activate and test from a second Instagram account.
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
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
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
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
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
Use a second account
Automations do not trigger from the account that owns the automation.
- 2
Comment your keyword
On the target post, comment the keyword you configured in the builder.
- 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.
How to get better results with this feature
The strongest results usually come from matching the feature to a clear goal. If your goal is lead generation, use the article to design a simple flow that captures interest quickly. If your goal is engagement, focus on a prompt or CTA that encourages replies and comments.
ManyReach works best when you keep the user journey short. A good setup usually includes one trigger, one message, one next step, and one measurable outcome. That keeps the experience easy to follow and easier to improve over time.
Once the flow is live, watch for the language your audience uses in comments or DMs. That feedback often reveals what to say next, what to automate, and where your content should go deeper on the next article.
- Use a clear keyword or trigger that matches the article topic.
- Keep the first DM short, helpful, and action-oriented.
- Review replies, clicks, and conversions after the flow goes live.
- Update the wording if the audience asks the same question in a different way.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common issue is making the setup too broad. If one automation tries to do too many things, the message becomes vague and the conversion rate drops. It is usually better to build one very specific flow and then create a second one for the next use case.
Another common mistake is forgetting the follow-up. ManyReach can deliver the first DM, but the page, link, or offer behind it still has to be clear and mobile-friendly. A strong message plus a weak landing page will still underperform.
A third mistake is treating the article like the endpoint instead of the start of a workflow. The best help content should lead to a stronger setup, a better CTA, or a new automation that keeps working after the page is closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many automations can I create?▼
Unlimited automations per workspace.
Will someone get the same DM twice?▼
No. Each person typically receives one DM per automation per post.
Can I edit a live automation?▼
Yes. Pause, edit, and reactivate anytime. Changes apply to future triggers.