Glossary / Instagram

Industry terms

Auto-reply

An auto-reply is a message sent automatically in response to a DM, comment or keyword, so people get an answer without waiting for someone to type it.

Also called: automatic reply, auto DM, DM automation

When do auto-replies help?

When many people ask the same thing: "link?", "price?", "where do I buy?". Answering instantly catches people while they're interested.

When do they hurt?

When they pretend to be a person, answer the wrong question, or send people around in circles. A good auto-reply says what it is and gives them what they asked for in one step.

Is it allowed on Instagram?

Yes, through Meta's official tools and approved apps using the Instagram API.

Example

A boutique sets an auto-reply for the word SIZE that sends its size chart and a link to the product page.

Doing it with Aulto

Reply Drop sends an automatic DM when someone comments your keyword on a post.

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