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How to Collect Emails in Instagram DMs (Without a Link in Bio)

slay workflow

The traditional method to collect email addresses on Instagram is by directing followers to a “link in bio.” However, this approach is becoming increasingly outdated and cumbersome with the volume of content people are consuming. But you can now efficiently collect email addresses directly within Instagram DMs, eliminating the need for forms, link in bio services, or any unnecessary friction.

This is how to accomplish the task with either Slay.so or Inro.Social, along with instructions on how to automatically subscribe those contacts to your newsletter using OttoKit and Flodesk.

Getting Started with Slay.so

Begin by visiting Slay.so and initiating a free trial, with no credit card is required. Once your account is connected to your Instagram profile, you will have the capability to create straightforward DM automation flows that activate when someone messages you, replies to a story, or comments on a post.

Creating a DM Automation Flow

Inside your Slay.so workflow add a “Collect Email” step with a message such as:

“Hey! Want to join the email list? Please share your best email address, and I will add you.”

This step will automatically capture the next email address sent by the user and store it in your system.

slay collect email

Integrating with Your Newsletter Platform

Next, you will need to send the collected email address to your preferred newsletter platform (such as Mailchimp, ConvertKit, Flodesk, etc.).

slay contacts

Under Contacts, choose Manage Webhooks.

Then insert the webhook from your connecting app, like OttoKit.

slay webhook

Here is a sample automation in OttoKit to get you started. For my use case, I connect it with my Flodesk list.

slay to ottokit to flodesk

To test the integration, use a different Instagram profile to send yourself the designated keyword via Instagram to activate the flow.

Once completed, you will have successfully subscribed your followers to your newsletter without ever leaving Instagram. This method requires no landing pages, forms, or unnecessary complications.

Now set the flow to active and ensure that it is saved.

Getting Started with Inro.Social

To be honest, for Inro, it’s quite the similar setup as Slay is, but with a very different user interface. Here’s how to do it.

Set up your Inro automation for the keyword.

inro automation

Add the Collect Email Address block, include your message to have someone share their email address.

Then use the Send HTTPS Request for the webhook information.

inro email and webhook

It might look overwhelming, but I promise you that once you play around you’ll get a hang of it.

Conclusion

By leveraging the right tools, you can enhance your engagement and effectively grow your email list directly through Instagram DMs. Start your free trial of Slay.so or Inro.Social, OttoKit and Flodesk today and see how simple it can be to connect with your audience.

Your efforts to connect and engage are commendable, and with these streamlined tools, your voice will resonate more powerfully than ever.

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Comments

13 responses to “How to Collect Emails in Instagram DMs (Without a Link in Bio)”

  1. This article presents a refreshing take on email collection strategies. The shift to using Instagram DMs is timely, considering how users often overlook links in bios. I appreciate the detailed instructions provided for both Slay.so and Inro.Social.

    1. While the idea is interesting, I wonder if people will actually respond to DMs for their email addresses. It seems too informal for something as personal as an email subscription.

  2. This approach feels outdated already. People are inundated with messages and may view these DMs as spammy rather than engaging. It’s hard to believe that this method will yield significant results.

  3. I had to chuckle at the notion of automating such a personal interaction. Asking for emails in DMs sounds like a recipe for awkwardness. Who wants to receive an automated message asking for their email? It’s amusing, really.

  4. This article provides a refreshing perspective on email collection. Moving away from the link in bio approach is a step forward. I’m excited to try the DM automation flows for my Instagram!

  5. While I understand the intent, it seems like yet another tool for what could be a straightforward process. Can’t we just keep things simple without all these integrations?

  6. I disagree with the negative perspective. Adapting to new methods can lead to better results. Those who resist change may miss out on effective strategies.

  7. ‘Start your free trial’ seems suspiciously optimistic for a process that looks rather tedious at first glance. Why not offer something proven before asking for commitments?

  8. I find this method overly complicated. Why would I want to manage automation flows when I could just use a simple form? Sometimes, less is more, and this feels like an unnecessary layer.

  9. This article offers valuable insights into modern marketing techniques. The ability to capture emails directly in DMs is innovative and can significantly enhance user engagement.

  10. The practicality of using Instagram DMs for email collection is impressive. It streamlines communication and makes it easier for users to subscribe without additional steps.

  11. ‘Just message me your email’ sounds simple enough, but what if someone sends the wrong address? There’s no way to confirm accuracy unless you follow up.

  12. Such a smart and practical guide—thank you! I loved how you explained collecting emails through Instagram DMs with clear steps and ethical emphasis. The focus on building genuine connections while streamlining lead generation makes it approachable for small businesses and creators. Sharing with friends who’ll appreciate these actionable tips for growing their audience authentically through social media.

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