Mastering the DM: Expert Tips to Start Real Conversations on Instagram

Relationship experts say to skip generic openers and start with a hook tied to the person’s profile (a comment or question about something they posted), find something you genuinely relate to, and use an icebreaker if needed. Stay confident and detached from the outcome, aim to move the chat forward only if there’s mutual interest, and when the conversation flows, offer your number or propose a casual meet-up to transition from DMs to real-life plans.