Beginner
How to send direct messages on Slack
Quick Answer
To send direct messages on Slack, click the compose button or plus icon in the sidebar, search for the person's name, and type your message. You can also start a DM by clicking on someone's profile and selecting 'Message'.
Prerequisites
- A Slack account
- Access to a Slack workspace
- Slack app installed or browser access
- Basic familiarity with Slack interface
1
Open Slack and locate the compose button
Open your Slack workspace and look for the compose button (usually a pencil icon or plus sign) in the left sidebar near the top. On desktop, it's typically labeled "New message" or shows as a + icon.
Tip
You can also use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+N (Windows) or Cmd+N (Mac) to quickly start a new message.
2
Click the compose button to start a new message
Click the compose or New message button. This will open a new message window or modal dialog where you can select recipients.
3
Search for the recipient
In the "To:" field, start typing the name, username, or email address of the person you want to message. Slack will display matching results as you type. Click on the correct person from the dropdown suggestions.
Tip
You can add multiple people to create a group direct message by selecting additional names.
4
Type your message
Click in the message composition area and type your direct message. You can format text using *bold*, _italics_, or use other Slack formatting options. You can also attach files, add emojis, or mention other users.
Tip
Use @ followed by a username to mention someone specifically in your message.
5
Send the message
Press Enter to send your message, or click the Send button (paper airplane icon). Your direct message will be delivered immediately to the recipient.
Tip
Hold Shift+Enter to add a new line without sending the message.
6
Alternative method: Message from profile
You can also start a direct message by clicking on any user's profile picture or name in channels, then selecting "Message [Name]" or "Send a message" from their profile popup.
Tip
This method is faster when you're already viewing someone's messages in a channel.
7
Find your direct message conversation
Your direct message conversation will appear in the Direct Messages section of your left sidebar. Click on the conversation name to return to it anytime and continue the conversation.
Tip
Pin important direct message conversations by right-clicking and selecting 'Star conversation' to keep them at the top of your sidebar.
Troubleshooting
Can't find the person I want to message
Make sure they're in your workspace and check if you're typing their name correctly. Try searching by their display name, username, or email address. If they're not in your workspace, you'll need to invite them first.
Message won't send
Check your internet connection and ensure you have permission to message the user. Some workspaces have restrictions on direct messaging. Try refreshing Slack or restarting the app.
Compose button is missing
Look for a + icon or try right-clicking in the Direct Messages section of your sidebar and selecting "Open a direct message". On mobile, tap the compose icon in the bottom right corner.
Can't see direct message history
Direct messages should appear in your sidebar under Direct Messages. If missing, try searching for the person's name in the search bar at the top of Slack, or check if the conversation was archived.
Ready to get started with Slack?
Put this tutorial into practice. Visit Slack and follow the steps above.
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