What Should I Reply to "Hey"?
Got a one-word "hey"? Here's how to reply to a low-effort opener in a way that creates momentum instead of bouncing back another dead "hey".
The best reply to a bare "hey" is a warm response plus a hook — give them something specific to grab onto instead of volleying another dead "hey" back. A low-effort opener doesn't have to lead to a low-effort conversation; you set the energy.
Why "hey" is hard
It carries zero information. Match a low-effort message with another low-effort message and the chat flatlines before it starts. Your job is to inject a topic.
Reply formula: greeting + hook
- Profile hook: "Hey! Okay I have to ask about the dog in your third photo — what's the story?"
- Playful hook: "Hey yourself 😏 bold opener. I'll allow it if you tell me your go-to weekend plan."
- Light challenge: "Hi! Quick test before we continue: pineapple on pizza — yes or no?"
What to avoid
- Replying just "hey" back.
- A giant paragraph — overcorrecting looks try-hard.
- Being sarcastic about their effort ("wow, great opener"). It reads as hostile.
If you're not feeling it
A bare "hey" with a blank profile and no follow-through is a fine one to let go. Spend your energy where there's something to work with.
A quick read
What's happening: low-effort opener, but their profile has hooks. Best move: greet + pull one specific detail from their profile. Reply (Most like you): "Hey! Your bio says 'ask me about my pasta' — consider yourself asked."
Where Ulet fits
Ulet turns a flat "hey" into momentum by reading their profile and your style and handing you a hook-led reply in your own voice. Screenshots are never stored.