Ever scrolled through someone’s Instagram profile and seen a button labeled “Email” or “Business Inquiries”? If you’ve ever wondered what this means, you’re not alone.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly what “business inquiries” means on Instagram, who uses it, how you can set it up, and why it’s a powerful tool for creators, influencers, and businesses. We’ll also cover best practices and answer common questions to help you use it smartly.
What Does Business Inquiries Mean on Instagram?
Business inquiries on Instagram is a feature that lets users contact the profile owner for business-related reasons.
When a profile has a Professional Account (either as a Creator or a Business), Instagram gives them the option to show an “Email” button under their bio. This button is used for business communications, such as:
- Sponsorship offers
- Brand collaborations
- Partnership requests
- Questions about services or products
In simple terms: It’s a way for someone to reach out professionally, not casually.
Why Do People Use Business Inquiries on Instagram?
Instagram is no longer just a photo-sharing app. It’s a hub for brands, creators, influencers, and even small business owners. The Business Inquiries button helps keep personal and business messages separate. Here’s why people use it:
- To get partnership offers from brands
- To receive PR or influencer outreach
- To handle service requests (photographers, makeup artists, etc.)
- To offer consulting or coaching sessions
- To help with networking
It helps users make it easier for serious, business-minded followers or companies to connect.
Who Can Use the Business Inquiries Option?
Only Professional Accounts (Business or Creator) on Instagram can use this feature. Regular personal accounts won’t see the option unless they switch to a professional profile.
Here’s a quick difference:
| Account Type | Can Add Business Inquiry Email? | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Personal | No | Casual users, friends/family |
| Creator | Yes | Influencers, artists, content creators |
| Business | Yes | Brands, shops, services |
If you’re trying to grow your brand or earn income through Instagram, this feature is essential.
How to Set Up Business Inquiries on Instagram
Setting up the “Business Inquiries” or “Email” button is easy. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
Step 1: Switch to a Professional Account
- Go to your profile.
- Tap the menu icon (top right corner).
- Tap Settings and Privacy.
- Tap Account Type and Tools > Switch to Professional Account.
You’ll choose between Creator or Business.
Step 2: Add Your Business Email Address
- Stay in Settings.
- Tap Professional Account Settings > Contact Options.
- Enter your email address.
- Tap Save.
Now, visitors will see an Email button that says “Business Inquiries”.
What Happens When Someone Clicks the Business Inquiries Button?
When someone taps your “Email” button, their phone opens a default email app with your business email address filled in. This streamlines communication.
- They don’t need to DM you.
- You don’t risk missing their message in the clutter of DMs.
Pro Tip: Use a professional email like hello@yourbrand.com to build trust.
Business Inquiries Examples on Instagram
Here are a few examples of how different users use the feature:
Influencer
- Profile Bio: “DM for collabs or email me below!”
- Email: contact@jessbeauty.com
Small Business
- Bio: “Order custom candles or send us your bulk order inquiry!”
- Email: orders@cozycandleshop.com
Artist or Freelancer
- Bio: “Booking open for March – serious inquiries via email.”
- Email: bookings@artbyjo.com
Best Practices for Using Business Inquiries on Instagram
- Use a dedicated business email – keep it separate from your personal one.
- Respond promptly – treat it like a professional inbox.
- Check your email regularly – don’t just rely on DMs.
- Add clear info in your bio – let users know what kind of inquiries you accept.
- Avoid using casual language in responses – stay professional.
How to Remove or Change Your Business Inquiry Email
You can change your business email anytime:
- Go to your profile.
- Tap Edit Profile.
- Tap Contact Options.
- Update or delete the email.
- Tap Done.
If you remove the email entirely, the “Business Inquiries” button will disappear.
Is It Safe to Share Your Email on Instagram?
Yes, if you’re using a business email and you’re cautious about spam. A few tips:
- Don’t use your personal email.
- Use filters to manage spam.
- Never click suspicious links in email replies.
Instagram does not share your email publicly in a way that bots can easily scrape—though it’s still wise to stay alert.
How Business Inquiries Help Build Your Brand
Think of this as your digital business card.
- It creates trust – brands see you’re open to professional opportunities.
- It saves time – faster than chatting via DMs.
- It builds credibility – especially when paired with a professional bio, highlights, and content.
Whether you’re a small creator or a growing brand, enabling this feature shows that you’re serious about your Instagram presence.
FAQs About Business Inquiries on Instagram
What are inquiries on Instagram?
On Instagram, “inquiries” usually mean questions or requests for more information—especially about a product, service, or offer. You’ll often see captions like “DM to inquire” or “Inquire for details,” which means the person wants you to send them a direct message (DM) if you’re interested. This is very common with business accounts, small shops, and influencers promoting something.
What does DM for business inquiries mean?
“DM for business inquiries” means the account owner wants you to send them a direct message if you have a business-related question or proposal. This could include brand collaborations, service requests, booking info, or even wholesale inquiries. It’s a more personal way to connect, especially when the account doesn’t list an email address publicly.
What does business inquiries only mean?
When someone says “business inquiries only,” they’re making it clear that they only want to be contacted for professional reasons—not casual messages or personal chats. This phrase is often used by influencers, creators, or entrepreneurs who receive lots of DMs and want to focus only on serious, work-related conversations like sponsorships, bookings, or brand deals.
How do you submit an inquiry on Instagram?
There are two common ways to submit an inquiry on Instagram:\n\n1. Via Direct Message (DM): Tap the message icon on their profile to send a private message with your question.\n2. Via Email (Business Inquiries button): On business or creator profiles, you might see an “Email” button under the bio. Tap it to send a formal inquiry directly to their business email.\n\nIf you’re trying to report a problem with Instagram itself, go to:\nProfile > Menu (☰) > Help > Report a Problem.
Why does DM say business chat on Instagram?
When your DM says “Business Chat,” it means you’re messaging an official business account on Instagram. This label helps users know they’re speaking with a business, not a personal profile. Instagram uses this feature to support professional communication, and you’ll often see options like quick replies, auto responses, or links shared in the chat.
What does “Business Inquiries” mean in someone’s Instagram bio?
It usually means the person is open to business-related messages—such as partnerships, brand deals, or bookings.
Can anyone add a Business Inquiry button?
Only users with a Creator or Business account can add this feature.
Is there a difference between the “Email” button and “Business Inquiries”?
No. The “Email” button is often labeled as “Business Inquiries” depending on the app version or context.
Do I need a website to add Business Inquiries?
No. You only need a valid email address to activate the feature.
What if I get spam?
Use filters or a dedicated business inbox. Avoid replying to suspicious emails.
