Follow-Gated DMs in ReplyRush

The Follow-Gated DM feature lets you send an automated direct message only after a user follows your Instagram account.
It’s a powerful way to increase your follower count while still delivering the link, offer, or information they wanted.


Purpose of Follow-Gated DM

  • Grow followers – Encourage people to follow before they receive valuable content.

  • Filter audience – Ensure DMs go only to engaged followers.

  • Boost engagement – Followers are more likely to see and interact with your posts in the future.


Benefits

  • Works with Posts/Reels, Stories, Inbox Automation, and Global Triggers.

  • Combines well with Comment Auto Reply, Sendback, and AI Trigger.

  • Creates exclusivity and reward-based engagement.


How to Activate Follow-Gated DM

  1. Log in to ReplyRush: https://app.replyrush.com

  2. From the sidebar, click Follow-Gated DM.

  3. Enable the Follow-Gated DM toggle.

  4. You will see two optional automation settings:

    • Automatically Enable on New Post – Turns Follow-Gated on by default for every new post you link.

    • Enable for Already Linked Posts/Stories – Instantly applies Follow-Gated to all currently linked posts and stories.

  5. Configure your message:

    • Add the message content a user will receive after following.

    • (Optional) Add a button title for Media Templates to direct them to a link or offer.

  6. Click Save to apply your Follow-Gated settings.


How to Enable Follow-Gated DMs on Post/Reels

  1. Log in to your ReplyRush account: https://app.replyrush.com

  2. Go to the section where you are setting up automation:

    • Post/Reel (linked automation)

    • Stories

    • Inbox Automation

    • Global Trigger

  3. In the automation setup panel, look for the Follow-Gated DM option.

  4. Enable the toggle for Follow-Gated DM.

  5. Choose your Message Template (Media Template, Single Message, or Quick Replies).

  6. Add the content you want the follower to receive after they follow you.

  7. Save your automation.


How It Works

  • A user triggers your automation (comment, story reply, DM keyword, etc.).

  • If they already follow you, they instantly receive your message.

  • If they don’t follow you yet, ReplyRush prompts them to follow.

  • Once they follow, the original message is sent automatically.


Best Practices

  • Offer value in exchange for a follow — e.g., coupon, PDF guide, event link.

  • Use in promotional campaigns to convert active non-followers into followers.

  • Combine with Global Trigger or AI Trigger for maximum reach without manual edits.


Example Use Cases

  • “Follow us to get your exclusive 10% discount code in DM.”

  • “Follow to instantly receive the free eBook.”

  • “Follow us and we’ll send you the webinar registration link.”


FAQs

Q: Can Follow-Gated DM work without user interaction?
A: No, Meta’s policy requires the user to interact (comment, story reply, or send a DM) before we can send an automated message.

Q: Can I use it with Sendback?
A: Yes, you can run Sendback for missed interactions while keeping the follow requirement active.


Q: What if the user never follows?
A: They simply won’t receive the automated DM until they follow.