Send Slack Chat Messages: A Quick & Easy Guide

Updated at: 19/06/2025

Slack is your team's digital hub, but are you making the most of its chat features? This quick guide shows you exactly how to send Slack messages effectively, covering everything from basic text to formatting, mentions, channels, and direct messages. Learn the simple steps to boost communication and collaboration within your workspace. Master Slack messaging in minutes and unlock improved teamwork!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Initiating a New Direct Message

    • Locate the 'Direct Messages' section in the left sidebar of your Slack workspace.
    • Click the '+' (plus) sign to the right of 'Direct Messages' to open a new direct message window.
    Click the '+' (plus) sign to the right of 'Direct Messages' to open a new direct message window. Click the '+' (plus) sign to the right of 'Direct Messages' to open a new direct message window.
    Initiating a New Direct Message

  2. Selecting Recipients

    • In the 'To' field, start typing the name(s) of the recipient(s). Slack will suggest matching usernames from your workspace.
    • Select the correct recipient(s) from the list.
    Select the correct recipient(s) from the list. Select the correct recipient(s) from the list.
    Selecting Recipients

  3. Composing Your Message

    • Type your message in the compose box.
    • Use the formatting options (bold, italics, strikethrough, links, lists, code snippets) at the top of the compose box to enhance your message.
    • Add attachments (files, videos, audio) or emojis using the '+' button next to the compose box.
    • Mention specific users by typing '@' followed by their username to ensure they receive a notification.
    Mention specific users by typing '@' followed by their username to ensure they receive a notification. Mention specific users by typing '@' followed by their username to ensure they receive a notification. Mention specific users by typing '@' followed by their username to ensure they receive a notification. Mention specific users by typing '@' followed by their username to ensure they receive a notification.
    Composing Your Message

  4. Sending the Message

    • Click the 'Send' button to send your message.
    Click the 'Send' button to send your message.
    Sending the Message
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Tips

  • To edit a sent message, hover over it, click the three dots ('More actions'), and select 'Edit'.
  • To delete a sent message, hover over it, click the three dots ('More actions'), and select 'Delete'. Note that deleting a message is irreversible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Sending messages to the wrong channel

Reason: Easily done when you have multiple channels or similar channel names. This can lead to confusion or your message being ignored.
Solution: Double-check the channel name before sending your message.

2. Forgetting to include necessary context or information

Reason: Incomplete messages can lead to misunderstandings and require follow-up questions, wasting time and potentially causing frustration.
Solution: Ensure your message is clear, concise, and includes all relevant details.

FAQs

How do I send a direct message (DM) to someone on Slack?
To send a direct message, click on the person's name in your Slack sidebar. A direct message window will open. Type your message and hit Enter to send.