ManyChat keyword triggers: how to automate Facebook and Instagram comments

How many times have you bumped into a post which contained the following CTAs?
“Comment event to get the link” or “Write info to learn more”?
It’s not magic, it’s automation.
And the tool behind it, also known as Comment Keywords Automation,  is ManyChat Keyword Triggers. 

In this article—based on the tutorial video below—you’ll learn why these triggers are essential for lead generation, and how to easily set them up using ManyChat, the automation platform integrated with Meta (and soon, TikTok as well).

What are ManyChat keyword triggers?

ManyChat Keyword Triggers are automations activated when a user types a specific word in the comments of a post. For example:

• If someone comments “event,” they receive an automatic DM with the registration link.
• If they write “info,” they instantly get product or service details.

This setup, aimed to turn organic engagement into real-time conversations, allows you to never lose contact with someone genuinely interested in your content. 

Why keyword triggers are crucial for lead generation

If on the one hand, many marketers are used to focus on paid traffic or owned assets (like email lists or CRMs), on the other organic traffic often risks to slip through the cracks.

Keyword Triggers solve that: a single comment becomes a lead-gen opportunity, transforming every post into an active client acquisition channel.

Platforms that support keyword triggers 

Besides ManyChat, (the most complete and Meta-integrated solution), other platforms offering keyword-trigger features include:

• GoHighLevel
• MobileMonkey
• Tidio
• ActiveChat
• BotStar

All of them allow automations via comment keywords, but ManyChat stands out for its simplicity, low cost, and seamless Meta integration.

How to set up a keyword trigger in ManyChat

Here’s a simple step-by-step process:

1. Go to Automation > Keywords in ManyChat.
2. Create a new trigger and enter your keyword (e.g., “info”).
3. Choose whether it applies to one specific post or all posts/Reels.
4. Write your auto-reply—something like:
   “Hey! Thanks for your comment. Here’s the link you requested: www.giovanniperilli.com”
5. Add buttons, links, or alternate replies if needed.
6. Save and activate the trigger.

From that point on, every time someone comments with that keyword, they’ll get your preset message—automatically.

It works across Instagram, Facebook, and—soon—WhatsApp, thanks to new integrations.

A real-world example: Crisi Fiscale d’Impresa

In the video below, you’ll see a real automation flow we built for CFI – Crisi Fiscale d’Impresa: when someone comments “consulente” under a post, they instantly receive a private message with a link to apply.

Simple, direct, and highly effective at filtering leads and starting meaningful conversations.

Advanced automations using AI

ManyChat goes beyond basic triggers. With premium plans, in fact, (starting around €30/month, or €44 with AI features), you can generate full-fledged virtual assistants.

These bots can:

• Engage users in natural dialogue
• Filter and route requests
• Connect with databases or AI models (like GPT)

The result? Personalized conversations that feel human, even though they’re fully automated. 

Final thoughts: keyword triggers as a growth tool

ManyChat Keyword Triggers are one of the easiest and most powerful ways to turn organic comments into automated, high-value interactions.

Whether you’re a freelancer, an agency, or a brand—adding this feature to your strategy means more qualified leads and a smoother conversion path.

Want to try ManyChat? [Sign up here.]

Need help building custom automations for your business or your clients? Get in touch—I’ll help you craft the perfect flow.