Automation is simple to switch on and easy to get slightly wrong. These are the most common ones, with the fix for each.
1. Keyword not visible
The keyword is only in the caption's fifth line. Fix: on-screen text, voice-over and first caption line.
2. Keyword people do not type
You chose INFO; people type price. Fix: read your comments and use their words, plus variants. More
3. Keyword too common
nice or love triggers your sales link on compliments. Fix: specific request words only.
4. Vague DM
"Thanks for your interest! Visit our website." Fix: answer the question and link the exact product. More
5. Homepage link
The buyer must search for the product again. Fix: link to the product or a filtered collection.
6. Follow-gate on product links
Buyers asked for a price and got a follow request. Fix: gate only free content. More
7. Identical public replies
Two hundred "Check DM!" comments. Fix: two or three variations.
8. Automation switched on late
The reel's first hour passed with no replies. Fix: set it up before posting.
9. Untested link
Broken link, slow page, or login wall in Instagram's browser. Fix: test on a phone from a DM. More
10. Ignoring replies
People reply to the DM with questions and nobody answers. Fix: check your inbox daily; replies are warm buyers.
11. Password-based tools
A "free unlimited DM" app took your password. Fix: remove it, change your password, use only official tools. More
A quick audit
Open each live automation and check: keyword visible in the post, realistic keywords, specific DM, exact link, sensible follow-gate setting, varied public replies, link tested this week.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I review automations?
Weekly for active campaigns, monthly for evergreen ones.
Should I delete old automations?
Switch off ones for discontinued products, or point them to similar products.
Is it a mistake to automate every post?
Not if the catch-all sends something useful for any post, like the catalogue.
What is the most expensive mistake?
Using a password-based tool, because it can cost you the account.