Will Instagram’s New Tools Help Your Business?
Instagram’s latest updates are designed to make direct messaging more flexible and engaging, but what does this mean for your business?
From editing messages to pinning important chats, these new features offer brands opportunities to streamline communication and improve customer interactions.
But, as with any new tool, there are potential downsides. Let’s explore how these changes can benefit your business—and where they might fall short.
1. Edit Direct Messages (DMs) for More Professionalism
One of the standout features is the ability to edit Direct Messages up to 15 minutes after sending them. This can be a lifesaver for businesses that want to maintain professionalism, especially when communicating with clients. Whether you made a typo or need to clarify information, the ability to make quick edits ensures your messaging stays polished.
Potential downside: Constantly editing messages could lead to confusion if the other party saw the original version. Use this feature wisely and avoid over-reliance on edits.
2. Pin Conversations to Prioritize Clients
Instagram now allows you to pin up to three chats at the top of your inbox. This is perfect for keeping important conversations—like those with top clients or urgent inquiries—front and center, ensuring that no critical communication gets lost in a sea of DMs.
Potential downside: The three-pin limit might feel restrictive for larger businesses with a high volume of important chats. You may still need a dedicated CRM system for more extensive communication needs.
3. Read Receipts: Control Transparency in Communication
The ability to toggle read receipts on or off gives businesses more control over their communications. You can decide whether to let the other party know you’ve seen their message, which helps manage expectations in client interactions.
Potential downside: Some clients may interpret read receipts as being turned off as a lack of transparency, which could impact trust. It's important to balance privacy with open communication.
4. Save Stickers and Media for Faster Engagement
Instagram now allows users to save favorite stickers for quick replies, adding a fun and dynamic way to respond to DMs. This feature can be used strategically for businesses to inject personality into customer interactions or reinforce brand identity. You can also respond to messages with photos, GIFs, or voice messages, making conversations more engaging.
Potential downside: While fun and informal, this feature may only suit some businesses, especially those with a more casual or informal brand.
5. Personalize Conversations with Themes
Chat themes allow businesses to bring a creative flair to their DMs. You can tailor conversations with clients by applying themes that reflect your brand’s personality or the nature of your conversation.
Potential downside: Over-personalization might not be ideal in specific industries where a more neutral tone is expected. Use this feature to align with your brand image and client expectations.
