If a user does not click a waitlist link, should the next DM emphasize limited spots or product updates?

For a user who has not clicked your waitlist link, a follow-up DM emphasizing product updates is generally more effective because it builds value and trust without applying premature pressure. The core challenge with an unclicked link isn't forgetfulness; it's often a lack of conviction. The person isn't sold on why they should join the waitlist yet. Sending a follow-up that immediately pushes scarcity can feel aggressive and may cause them to ignore you completely. The better strategy is to first reinforce the value, then introduce urgency later if needed.

Why Leading with Product Updates Works Best

A value-first approach focuses on educating the potential customer. Your goal is to move them from lukewarm interest to genuine excitement. A follow-up focused on updates helps you do this by:

• Answering unspoken questions: A sneak peek of a feature or a benefit you haven't mentioned before can be the missing piece of information they needed.

• Building anticipation: Sharing behind-the-scenes progress or teasing a specific outcome makes the future launch feel more tangible and exciting.

• Establishing authority: It shows you are actively working on creating something great, which builds confidence in you and your product. This approach is about nurturing the lead, not just converting them. It respects their decision-making process and gives them more reasons to believe in what you're offering.

When Can Scarcity (Limited Spots) Be Effective?

Emphasizing limited spots isn't a bad tactic, but its success depends heavily on timing. Scarcity works best when the value of the offer is already crystal clear and the user just needs a final nudge to act. It’s most effective in these scenarios:

• For highly anticipated launches: If you already have significant hype, reminding people of limited availability can trigger their fear of missing out (FOMO).

• For time-sensitive offers: It's a natural fit for limited-edition product drops, small set coaching programs, or early-bird pricing tiers.

• As a final follow-up: If a user still hasn't clicked after a value-based follow-up, a final message about spots filling up can be a powerful last-ditch effort.

How to Automate a Smarter Follow-Up Sequence

You can easily create a workflow that combines both value and urgency without spending hours in your DMs. Here’s a simple process:

1. Set up your initial automation: When a user comments a keyword like “WAITLIST” on your post, your first message with the link is sent automatically.

2. Schedule a delayed message: Inside a platform like StarLovin, you can use the Smart Follow-Up Messages feature. This allows you to send another DM after a set period (e.g., 24 hours) only to people who did not click the first link.

3. Craft your value-based follow-up: Your automated message can say something like, “Hey! Just wanted to share a quick preview of a feature we’re so excited about…” This message gives them another reason to be interested. By using an automation tool like StarLovin, you ensure your follow-ups are timely, relevant, and sent only to the right people, giving you the best chance to turn a hesitant follower into an excited future customer.