How to auto reply to Instagram comments with a DM

Why comment-to-DM works so well

Commenting is the easiest action a follower can take. Asking for one word lowers the effort to almost zero, and the comments themselves boost the post’s reach. The DM then moves the conversation into a private space where you can share prices, links and offers and ask for a phone number.

Speed matters. Interest fades quickly, so a reply in seconds converts far better than one hours later.

What you need

• An Instagram Business or Creator account (free to switch in settings).
• A tool that connects through Meta’s official login, never one that asks for your password.
• A clear offer: a price list, a discount, a free guide or a booking link.

Step-by-step setup

1. 1

   Choose a short keyword

   One easy word in capitals, related to the offer: PRICE, MENU, GUIDE, DEMO.

2. 2

   Write the DM

   Thank them, deliver the offer, and ask one question: "Can I have your name and number to send details?"

3. 3

   Add the call to action to your post

   Put it in the caption and on the image: "Comment PRICE and we’ll DM you the full list".

4. 4

   Turn on the automation

   Link the keyword to the post or the whole campaign.

5. 5

   Reply publicly too

   A short public reply such as "Sent! Check your DMs" shows others it works.

6. 6

   Follow up the leads

   Call or WhatsApp people who shared their number within a day.

Keyword ideas by business type

• Restaurants: MENU, TABLE
• Salons and clinics: PRICE, BOOK
• Coaches and creators: GUIDE, LIVE
• Real estate: PRICE, VISIT
• Online stores: LINK, SALE

Staying safe and within the rules

Only message people who commented, send one reply per person per keyword, and keep sensible hourly limits. Instagram’s messaging rules allow a private reply to someone who commented, and further messages once they respond. A good tool handles these limits for you and lets you pause any rule instantly.

Doing it with SocialNow AI

In SocialNow AI the keyword is set when you plan a campaign, so every post already ends with the right call to action. When people comment, they get your DM, are asked for their name and number, and appear in your Leads list with the post they came from. You can then follow up on WhatsApp in one tap.