Why I Don’t Use Instagram Direct Messaging (DM's) for Business or Marketing
One of the key values I live by in business is “Don’t make yourself more accessible than you really want to be”, a topic I delve into in a dedicated chapter of my book, Quiet Marketing.
This is why I’ve taken a stance that may surprise some, which is that I intentionally avoid using Direct Messages (DMs) for business interactions.
— In this article —
Direct Messaging signals “Direct Access”
For me, DMs equate to 'direct access'—a privilege I reserve exclusively for family, friends . . . and on occasion private clients.
This approach might seem counterintuitive, even shocking to some, especially amidst the current online business culture where the use of DMs is advised for everything from cold outreach to service delivery.
And because most post service based soloprenuers like us follow this trend, we can end up feeling obliged to use Direct Messaging too (without question), in order to be ‘heart centred’ or if we want to generate clients.
However, play the whole tape through and you might see, as I have, that the use of DM’s for business communications often requires more screen time, much of which is responding to queries that are often already addressed on our website.
Critics might argue that automation tools like ManyChat alleviate this burden. However, even automated DMs don't align with my values and the way I want to experience myself in business.
Why DMs don't feature in my business model:
Self-leadership: The common argument against directing people to your ‘link in bio’ or a URL, is that we should be making information as easy to access as possible. However, I've noticed that requiring a bit more effort from my audience—prompting them to visit my website for information, naturally draws in self-led clients and students who I love working with, and who don’t need spoon feeding.
Simplicity: By channelling all professional communication through email, I maintain a streamlined, manageable system. This not only simplifies my workflow but also respects my time and energy, allows me to dedicate focused attention to responding, and give me more time away from my screen 🍃
Community: Social media comments sections can offer an enriching space for shared experiences and insights, creating a sense of connection and collective wisdom. This is why responses to posts belong in the comments section, rather than a private DM.
How this decision has impacted on sales:
Shifting away from DMs for business communications has not hindered my business. On the contrary, it's become a unique selling point, and the reason clients choose to work with me.
When they see me going against the grain, and still having a thriving business, it gives rise to a “Wow, I want what she’s having,” moment. Nobody wants to be a 24/7 help-desk, especially when its not actually necessary.
What this stance says about me:
This decision also aligns to my bigger ‘why’, which is to be a way-shower of a more harmonious approach to online business, one where we connect with our ideal clients, and serve them in a way that is energetically sustainable.
Choosing to not make yourself more accessible than you really want to be, also relates to other areas of business such as pricing and outside of session support. I talk more about this in my book, which you receive for free as part of this workshop.
How does this approach land with you? I invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below.
Dani x
Danielle Gardner
The Quiet Marketer
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