When it comes to building a community on Instagram, follow requests are where it all begins. This feature isn’t just about adding numbers to your follower count—it’s about deciding who you want to let into your online circle.
Keeping track of your Instagram follow requests is like managing the guest list in your online world. By knowing who’s asking to follow, you’re in the driver’s seat, choosing the connections that matter to you.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about handling follow requests in Instagram, so you can keep your Instagram experience smooth, private, and in control.
Understanding Instagram Following Request Feature
The follow request in Instagram is a bit like knocking on someone’s door before stepping inside. When someone wants to follow a private account, they have to send a request, which then waits patiently in your notifications until you decide whether to approve or ignore it.
For private account holders, this feature gives them control over who can see their posts, stories, and most importantly, their personal life. You get to choose who gets in and who doesn’t, making it easier to protect your privacy while also building meaningful connections.
But what if you’ve sent out requests and can’t remember whom you’ve asked? Don’t worry, Instagram’s got you covered with Instagram tools to help you track these pending requests, and we’ll show you exactly how to find them, whether you’re on Android, iOS, or even on your computer.
How to See Whom You Sent Instagram Follow Request on Android and iOS
If you’re an Instagram user on the go, you’re probably using the app on your phone. Follow these steps to see your pending follow requests:
- Open Instagram and go to your profile by tapping the icon at the bottom right.
- Tap the three-line menu in the top-right corner to open your settings, the select “Your Activity”.
- In “Your Activity,” scroll down and tap “Download Your Information.”
- Instagram will guide you to the Meta Accounts Center to review and confirm your request.
- Choose to download data related to followers and following.
- Enter your email and pick a file format (e.g., JSON or HTML).
- Tap “Create Files” to submit your request; Instagram will email you when it’s ready.
- Once you receive the email, download the file, open it, and find the section listing your pending IG follow requests.
Now you’ll see a list of all the follow request in Instagram you’ve sent but haven’t been approved yet. If you’ve ever wondered whether someone hasn’t followed back or is just taking their time, here’s your answer.
How to See Whom You Sent Follow Request in Instagram on Computer/PC
Prefer using a desktop? No problem! Checking your Instagram following request on a computer is just as easy. Here’s how:
- Open Instagram in your browser.
- Click on your profile icon in the top right corner, then select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
- In the Settings menu, locate and click on “Your Activity.”
- Scroll down and find the option “Download Your Information” under “Your Activity” settings.
- Instagram will redirect you to the Meta Accounts Center, where you can review your data request details.
- Choose to download only the data related to followers and following to view pending requests.
- Provide your email address and choose a file format (e.g., HTML or JSON) for the download.
- Click “Create File.” Once Instagram emails you the download link, open the file to view your pending follow requests in the followers/following section.
Voila! You now have a full view of every request you’ve sent out into the Instagramverse, all neatly listed for you to review.
Alternative Methods to Track Follow Requests
Let’s be real, not everyone is going to stick to manual checks all the time. Here are a few alternative methods you can use to keep track of your follow requests, just in case you want to step up your game.
1. Third-Party Applications
There are apps out there that can help you track Instagram follow requests. But be careful. Not all third-party apps are created equal, and using one could put your account security at risk. Always do your research before trusting any app with your login credentials.
2. Email Notifications
Sometimes, Instagram sends email notifications when you send a follow request. These emails can help you track which requests you’ve sent, so make sure to check your inbox for any updates.
3. Manual Monitoring
If you prefer to stay off the grid in terms of third-party apps, you could always go old school and write down the accounts you’ve requested to follow. This might sound like a hassle, but it’s a sure way to keep track of your Instagram following requests without any extra tech.
How to Cancel All Pending Sent Instagram Follow Request
Now, let’s say you’ve changed your mind and want to clean up your pending requests. Instagram doesn’t offer a one-click option to cancel all your Instagram follow request, but you can manually remove them. Here’s how:
- Follow the steps above to access your list of sent follow requests.
- Once you see the list, click on each account name to open their profile.
- On their profile, tap the “Requested” button to cancel the request.
This process has to be done one by one, so if you’ve got a lot of requests hanging out there, make some time to get them all.
Bottom Line…
Keeping track of your Instagram follow request is key to maintaining control over your privacy, connections, and overall social media experience. Whether you’re using the app on your phone or browsing on your computer, knowing who’s still pending in your follow queue is just one more way to keep things running smoothly.
With that said, if you’re looking to take your Instagram presence to the next level, why not check out iDigic’s services? Whether it’s managing your followers or boosting engagement, such as likes and views, we’ve got the tools to help you thrive in the digital world! The good thing is that, we’re offering a free trial—so don’t miss it out!
