How ManyChat Automations are Ruining Authentic Conversations

In the age of instant gratification and digital efficiency, marketing tools like ManyChat have become essential for businesses, brands and influencers seeking to scale their online presence.

Offering automated responses, customer funnels, and AI-driven conversation flows. ManyChat promises to save time and increase conversions. But as this automation becomes the norm, a new problem has emerged - has authenticity disappearing from our social media conversations?

The Rise of Automated Conversations

With templates and drag-and-drop automation, it’s now easier than ever to respond to comments, deliver content, and upsell products - without ever personally interacting with followers.

On paper, this sounds like a win-win. Brands save time. Customers get quick responses. But behind the polished facade of efficiency lies a deeper issue: human connection is being replaced with scripted interactions.

Authenticity is Taking a Back Seat

Social media was once a place for genuine connection - people followed others for their voice, personality, and unfiltered moments. Today, however, it’s increasingly difficult to tell whether you're speaking to a person or a bot. The same bland messages ("Thanks for your comment! Or DM me for a special gift 🎁") appear under dozens of posts. Conversations have become predictable thus making interactions feel transactional.

This shift limits trust. Followers start to disengage when they realise they're just another lead in a sales funnel. The community that once thrived on meaningful chatter becomes cluttered with cold auto-responses.

The irony? In trying to scale engagement, many creators are actually damaging it. Real loyalty isn’t built through generic scripts; it’s built through listening, responding, and being present.

When Automation Works (and When It Doesn’t)

To be clear, automation isn't all bad. When used wisely, it can handle repetitive tasks (like delivering a lead or answering FAQs) to help free up time for more meaningful conversations. The key is balance.

Here’s where ManyChat automation works:

• Delivering simple opt-ins (like a PDF or webinar link)

• Managing basic support questions

• Guiding users through sales funnels

  
  

But here’s where it falls short:

• Replacing personal replies to heartfelt messages

• Auto-commenting on every post

• Using fake urgency or manipulative tactics to drive sales

  
  

What Social Media Needs Now

As users become more savvy, they crave authenticity more than ever. People want to feel heard, not herded. They want to talk to a real human, not a bot disguised as one. The brands and creators that will thrive long-term are those who use tools like ManyChat with intention, not as a replacement for real interaction.

In the end, social media should still be social. Let’s not lose the human touch in our rush for automation. 

What are your thoughts on ManyChat automations? Comment below.