How to use Instagram Direct Messaging for your business: Everything you need to know!

Instagram is just for influencers? Not at all! In recent years, Instagram has actually become an increasingly attractive platform for many industries. Its messaging service, Instagram Direct Messaging, is therefore the first stop for users to get in touch with companies on the social media site. We explain how you can best leverage the huge potential of Instagram Direct Messaging for your business. 

Airtel, Dior, Tata: There's a reason why any major brand, from fashion to consulting to automotive is on Instagram! The visual platform offers unique possibilities to showcase your company. With its focus on images and videos, Instagram is one of the most powerful social media platforms for transporting a feeling around your brand, and through this emotional approach, getting more engaged responses from users. There's a reason why Instagram is one of the few social media channels where users actually reach out to brands first!

Instagram Direct, the platform's messaging service, is therefore an ideal starting point for engaging users in a conversation, and turning them into loyal customers. In this article, we'll look at the features of Instagram Direct Messaging, its opportunities for businesses, and we'll show you how other brands have had major success with Instagram Direct.

Short and sweet: This is Instagram Direct Messaging

• Claim: the ideal channel to build a loyal community.
• User numbers worldwide: Meta has not released specific user numbers for Instagram Direct, but as of 2023, Instagram counts two billion users globally.
• Target group: Young adults. Most users are between 25 and 34 years old.
• Unique appeal: Customers want and seek direct contact with companies.
• Advantages: Instagram DMs are very versatile, promote trust and generate leads.
• Disadvantages: For large accounts, responding to Instagram Direct Messages becomes a challenge.

Things to know about Instagram Direct

Instagram doesn't only have 1.2 billion active monthly users; 90% of these users also follow at least one company. In general, users have a positive reaction to seeing brands on Instagram. In a recent survey, 78% of users said that they perceive brands as popular when they see them on Instagram. And 74% find brands particularly relevant if they see them on "Insta". What's even more relevant: In the same survey, 72% of users said that they think that a brand is more engaged in community building if it's on Instagram.

In other words: brands that are not on Instagram are missing out on the huge potential of customer engagement and community building that's so unique to Instagram. Of course, being present on Instagram is only the first step. In order to be successful on the social media channel, you also need to actively engage with your community. And that typically happens in the conversational exchange in the DMs! That's why Instagram Direct Messages in particular can be so crucial for businesses.

In fact, you can use Instagram Direct throughout the entire customer journey, from lead generation to sales to customer service to retention. Think of it this way: stories, reels and feed post inspire and then Instagram Direct Messaging informs and converts!