Instagram isn’t just for scrolling — it’s where real deals happen.

Behind every profile is a potential client. And DMs are your direct line to them.

Getting clients on Instagram comes down to 4 simple steps:

→ A profile that builds trust instantly

→ A smart method to find the right people

→ A message that feels real (not robotic)

→ And once they reply — a way to turn the chat into a client

That’s the system. And I’ll show you exactly how to do it.

I'm Antoine, founder of Wave — a tool that automates Instagram outreach while keeping it personal. I built it because doing it manually just didn’t scale. These are the exact steps that helped me start turning DMs into real clients.

1. Optimize Your Profile to Attract the Right Clients

Before you send a single DM, your profile needs to be solid.

It’s the first thing someone checks after you message them — and it will make or break your conversion rate.

Here’s what actually matters:

• Profile pic : Clean, friendly, and instantly recognizable

• Bio : Who you help, how you help, and a clear CTA

• Link : Send people somewhere — Calendly, Website, Tally… just something clickable

• Posts : Have at least 9–12 relevant posts. Nobody trusts an empty feed

• Story highlights : Add a few — show your offer, behind-the-scenes, or social proof

• Follower count : Aim for 100+ to build basic credibility (it doesn’t need to be huge)

Think of your profile like a landing page.

If it’s vague, messy, or empty — people won’t take you seriously.

Simple question to ask yourself : Would you trust this profile if you got a DM from it?

If the answer’s “not sure”… fix it before you send anything.

2. Find the Right Prospects to Message

Don’t message random profiles.

You’re not trying to reach everyone — just the right ones.

Here’s where to look :

• Followers of creators or tools in your niche

• Likers and commenters on relevant posts (high intent)

• Competitors’ audiences — especially those who already engage

These people are already interested in your space.

They’ve shown intent — now you just need to start the conversation.

Using a tool like Wave, you can go even deeper:

Filter by follower count, type of account (personal or business), activity recency, and more — so you don’t waste time on ghost profiles or low-quality leads.

For more sourcing tactics, check out How to Generate High-Quality Leads on Instagram.

If you want to turn engagement into replies, go read 10 Instagram DM Templates That Get Replies.

3. Send the Right DM

A good cold DM doesn’t feel like a pitch.

It feels like perfect timing.

The goal isn’t to close someone in the first message — it’s to start a conversation.

Sometimes that means offering value. Other times, it’s just asking a smart question.

Think long term : open a conversation now, convert later.

Here’s what makes a strong first message :

• It references why you’re reaching out (comment, follow, bio, etc.)

• It brings value — a tip, idea, insight, or genuine curiosity

• It ends with a light, low-pressure ask — like “Want me to send it over?” or “Tried something like this before?”

Don’t overthink it.

Don’t send a wall of text.

Keep it short, sharp, and human.

For real examples, check out my post : 10 Instagram DM Templates That Get Replies (and Clients).

4. Turn Conversations Into Clients

Once they reply, you’re no longer cold.

Now it’s all about momentum.

Here’s how to keep things moving, without being pushy:

• Keep it casual : you don’t need to sell in every message

• Ask 1–2 smart questions : like “What’s your current approach for X?”

• Mirror their tone, fast texter or chill? Match their vibe

• Offer help before pitching :“Want me to walk you through what I’d change?”

• Write clean : no sloppy grammar, no rushed messages

From there, you can share :

• A short Loom video with custom ideas

• A Notion page with your process or tailored guide

• A quick, free audit

• Or just offer a short call to go deeper

Don’t rush the pitch.

Make it feel collaborative — not like a funnel.

Your job is simple: build trust.

Final Tip: Stay Consistent, Not Spammy

If you’re serious about getting clients, consistency beats hacks.

• Don’t send 100 generic messages. Send 10 good ones.

• Track who replied, follow up 1–2 times

• Keep your DMs feeling human — even when using automation

Wave helps automate the boring stuff — audience targeting, DM sequences, delays — so you can focus on real conversations.

Want to try it? You can start free for 7 days — and message me anytime if you have questions.

Clients are on Instagram. They’re already engaging.

You just need a simple system to start more of the right conversations — and follow through.