Instagram is one of the world’s most powerful social media platforms. Once we could only use most of Instagram’s features on mobile devices, including direct messages, one of the most used features by brands and creators.
In April 2020, Instagram finally launched messaging for desktops. Now, brands have more options when replying to their customers. This is excellent news, as responding to hundreds of DMs using only your mobile phone can be overwhelming.
This post will share some tips for setting up Instagram DM’s on desktop and managing the inbox to maximize engagement.
What is an Instagram “DM”?
Instagram DMs act as your mailbox, where you can send messages, photos, and videos to people without it appearing on your profile or in search. You can access your messages by clicking on the paper plane icon at the top right corner of your screen on your phone or laptop.
Why Managing Instagram DMs on Desktop Is Fantastic for Businesses
While some direct message features only remain available In the mobile app version, managing Instagram DMs on your computer can be helpful for businesses, influencers and anyone who sends and receives a lot of messages.
With the desktop version, you can respond to your customers faster and more accurately by using your keyboard. This helps you save time and focus on more important aspects of your business while fostering a great connection with your audience.
Plus, it allows you to integrate your social media workflow for a more organized and efficient strategy.
How to Send and Check Instagram DMs on a Desktop PC or Mac
You can easily access your Instagram DMs on a desktop or Mac with no extra apps or features required using your browser:
- Go to www.instagram.com on your preferred browser and log in to your account.
- Access Instagram Direct by clicking the paper plane icon at the top right corner of your screen.
- Instagram Direct shows you unread DMs first. Create a new DM by clicking the pencil and paper icon, then tap the Send Message button. From there, you can type the username of any brand or user you follow and send them a private message.
You can include photos, GIFs, and even Stories by clicking the paper plane icon under each post. You can share other users’ content by clicking share to direct and typing the username to who you want to DM the post.
Instagram Direct lets you message up to 32 users. You can like, forward, copy, or report a DM from your desktop by clicking the hamburger icon next to the reply button. You can also unsend your own DM or delete the entire conversation and start anew.
How to Access Instagram DMs Using Instagram for Windows (PC Only)
The Instagram app is available on the Microsoft Store and other websites like Softonic, so you can download it for free. Ensure your PC runs Windows 10 19041.0 or higher and has at least 2GB of system memory to run the app smoothly.
Managing Instagram DMs on Desktop: 4 Best Practices
If you want your followers to keep engaging with your brand, you need to ensure you don’t miss them. Keep your business profile active and have a strategy to engage with your audience.
Here are four best practices you should keep in mind when managing Instagram DMs on a desktop:
Turn On Notifications for Instagram DMs
Stay on top of your DMs by turning on your notifications. Go to Settings and select Push Notifications for your account, and make sure the “From Everyone” option is selected so you can stay in the loop of all incoming messages.
Set Up Instagram Quick Replies
Like other brands, you probably get the same questions from different followers. Instead of typing the same answer, save time by setting up quick replies. Quick replies are automated messages you set up to respond to frequently asked questions via DMs. This feature allows you to organize your messages better and provide faster customer service.
Here’s how to create a Quick Reply:
- Look for the plus sign icon found at the top right corner of your screen.
- Write a standard response to users’ frequently asked questions (FAQs).
- Create a one-word keyboard shortcut that you can assign to each message template.
Make Sure Your Instagram DMs Are On-Brand
Chat with your customers in a consistent tone that matches your brand voice. Show them your personality, and ensure they know they’re talking to a real person, not a robot. If you need to explain details, go for short and simple instead of using jargon that might be confusing.
Be mindful of the tone you use when communicating with your followers. Avoid being too personal and steer away from sarcastic jokes. It could offend people and create a negative image of your brand.
Sign Off Professionally
Conclude your conversation with a friendly thank you, see if there’s anything else you can help with, and wish them a great day ahead. Check for any typos or errors to make sure you look as professional as possible.
Key Takeaways
Managing your DMs on a desktop not only makes your job easier but also helps you improve your customer service. This will help you develop strong relationships with your followers and keep them interested in your brand. Managing DMs on your computer allows you to:
- Organize your inbox
- Keep track of incoming messages
- Boost customer service by maintaining an active profile
- Give a better user experience to your followers
Manage your Instagram account more efficiently on your desktop! Check out this blog: How to Post to Instagram from Your Computer with Publer to learn how you can post content from your computer.
Ervin Kalemi
