How to Send Your First Direct Message on Instagram
Instagram has become more than just a platform for sharing photos and videos. With its Direct Messages (DMs) feature, Instagram allows users to privately communicate, share posts, and even start group chats. Whether you’re reaching out to a friend, engaging with a business, or making a new connection, sending your first DM is straightforward.
If you’re new to Instagram or have never used the DM feature, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to send your first message.
Why Use Instagram DMs?
Before diving into the steps, let’s explore some of the benefits of Instagram DMs:
- Private Communication: Messages are only visible to the sender and recipient(s).
- Easy Media Sharing: Share posts, photos, videos, and links seamlessly.
- Building Connections: Great for networking, reaching out to influencers, or connecting with friends.
- Convenient Features: Includes voice notes, video calls, and emojis for engaging conversations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sending Your First DM
1. Open Instagram
- Start by opening the Instagram app on your smartphone. If you’re using a desktop, log in to your account at Instagram’s website.
2. Access the DM Section
- On mobile: Tap the paper airplane icon or Messenger icon in the top-right corner of the home screen.
- On desktop: Click the Messenger icon in the top-right corner of the page.
This will take you to the Direct Messages section, where you’ll see previous conversations (if any) or an empty inbox if you’re new.
3. Start a New Message
- Tap the pen and paper icon or new message icon in the top-right corner of the DM screen.
- A search bar will appear, prompting you to enter the username of the person you wish to message.
4. Select the Recipient
- Type the username of the person you want to message into the search bar.
- Instagram will display matching accounts. Tap the correct profile to select it.
5. Compose Your Message
- After selecting the recipient, you’ll see a text box at the bottom of the screen.
- Tap the box to type your message. Keep it simple for your first DM, especially if you’re messaging someone you don’t know well.
6. Send Your Message
- Once you’ve written your message, tap the send button (the paper airplane icon) to deliver it.
Additional Ways to Send DMs
Instagram offers alternative methods to send messages directly from profiles or posts:
1. From a User’s Profile
- Visit the person’s Instagram profile by searching for their username or tapping their name in a post or comment.
- Click the “Message” button located below their bio.
- This opens a chat where you can start typing your message.
2. From a Post
- If you want to send someone a post, tap the paper airplane icon below the post.
- Select the person or group you want to send it to, type an optional message, and tap Send.
3. Using Instagram Stories
- Tap on a friend’s story.
- At the bottom of the screen, there’s a text box labeled “Send Message.”
- Type your message and press Send.
Features You Can Include in Your DM
Instagram DMs aren’t limited to text. You can enhance your messages with the following features:
1. Emojis and Stickers
Add personality to your message with emojis or stickers. Tap the emoji icon on your keyboard or select stickers from the DM interface.
2. Photos and Videos
Tap the camera icon next to the text box to take or upload a photo or video directly in the chat.
3. Voice Notes
Hold down the microphone icon to record a voice message and release to send it.
4. GIFs
Tap the GIF icon to search for and send animated GIFs that express your mood or reaction.
5. Reactions
Double-tap a message to “like” it, or long-press to react with other emojis.
Tips for Sending Your First DM
1. Keep It Polite and Relevant
If you’re messaging someone for the first time, especially someone you don’t know personally, introduce yourself and state the purpose of your message clearly.
2. Be Mindful of Privacy
Messages from users you don’t follow might land in their Message Requests folder. Be patient, as they may not see your message immediately.
3. Avoid Spamming
Refrain from sending multiple messages in a short span, as it can appear intrusive.
4. Respect Boundaries
Not everyone will respond to DMs, especially if they have a large following. Avoid following up repeatedly if you don’t get a reply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I DM someone who doesn’t follow me?
Yes, you can send a message to anyone on Instagram. However, your message will appear in their Message Requests folder unless they follow you.
2. How do I know if my DM was seen?
If the recipient reads your message, you’ll see a “Seen” notification beneath it. For group chats, it will indicate who has viewed the message.
3. Can I delete a message after sending it?
Yes, you can “unsend” a message by long-pressing it and selecting Unsend. This removes it from the chat for both you and the recipient.
4. Are there limits to sending DMs?
Instagram has daily limits to prevent spam. Sending too many messages, especially to people you don’t follow, may temporarily restrict your DM feature.
Conclusion
Sending your first Direct Message on Instagram is a simple process, whether you’re reaching out to friends, influencers, or businesses. With its user-friendly interface and variety of features, Instagram DMs make communication seamless and engaging. Follow this guide, and you’ll be messaging like a pro in no time!
