An opener message is a short greeting with a button, sent before the message that actually carries your link.
It looks like a wasted step. It isn’t — it’s the step that gets your link opened.
Why it works
A first DM may appear in message requests. An opener gives the person a clear button to tap before AP3K sends the main content. Their interaction allows the conversation to continue within Instagram’s messaging rules.
It also filters for interest: someone who taps Get the link has chosen to continue. Inbox placement remains controlled by Instagram; an opener does not guarantee placement in the primary inbox.
Setting it up
Click Opener message in the row of add-on buttons. Fill in Opening message (up to 640 characters) and Continue quick reply (up to 20 characters). Use {{username}} where you want the recipient’s handle.
The main message waits until the recipient taps the continuation button. Preview the wording, then test both the initial DM and the button from a second account.
Writing one
Keep it to one or two lines. The opener’s whole job is earning a tap, so anything that isn’t working towards the tap is in the way.
- Greet them by name.
Hey {{username}}!— it makes the greeting specific to the recipient. - Say what the button does. “Get the link”, “Send me the guide”, “Show me the code”. Never “Click here” — the label is the promise.
- Don’t explain the offer yet. That’s the next message’s job.
A working opener:
Hey
{{username}}! So glad you commented 😊 Tap below and I’ll send that link straight over.
Opener, or ask to follow?
They’re different asks and they stack in this order:
- Opener message — get a tap, warm up the thread
- Ask to follow — require a follow before the DM goes out
- Collect email — ask for contact details
- Message — deliver what you promised
Each one adds friction. Adding all four to a giveaway will cost you entrants — pick the ones whose value you’d defend out loud.