How to create and join channels on Slack

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18

Quick Answer

Creating channels in Slack involves clicking the plus icon next to Channels in the sidebar and filling out channel details. Joining channels can be done by browsing the channel directory, using search, or accepting invitations from other members.

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Prerequisites

Active Slack account
Member of at least one Slack workspace
Basic understanding of Slack interface
Permission to create channels in your workspace

Step-by-Step Instructions

Navigate to the Channels section

In your Slack workspace, look for the Channels section in the left sidebar. You'll see a + (plus) icon next to it. Click this plus icon to start creating a new channel.

If you don't see the plus icon, you may not have permission to create channels in this workspace.

Choose channel type and enter details

A dialog box will appear asking you to choose between Public or Private channel. Enter your channel name in the Name field (use lowercase letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores only). Add a brief description in the Description field to help others understand the channel's purpose.

Channel names should be descriptive and follow your organization's naming conventions.

Add initial members (optional)

In the Add people section, start typing names or email addresses of colleagues you want to invite. Slack will show suggestions as you type. Click on names to add them to the channel. You can skip this step and add members later if needed.

Create the channel

Review your channel settings and click the Create button. Your new channel will appear in the Channels section of your sidebar, and you'll be automatically taken to the channel where you can start posting messages.

Consider posting a welcome message explaining the channel's purpose and guidelines.

Browse available channels to join

To join existing channels, click Browse channels in the Channels section or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+L (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+L (Mac). This opens the channel browser where you can see all public channels in your workspace.

Use the search bar in the channel browser to find specific channels quickly.

Join a channel

In the channel browser, find the channel you want to join and click the Join button next to it. For channels you're invited to, you'll see a notification with a Join Channel button that you can click directly.

Read the channel description before joining to make sure it's relevant to your interests or work.

Search for specific channels

Use the search bar at the top of Slack and type the channel name preceded by a # symbol (e.g., #marketing). Slack will show matching channels in the search results, and you can click Join from there.

If you can't find a channel, it might be private and require an invitation from a member.

Manage your channel memberships

To leave a channel, right-click on the channel name in the sidebar and select Leave channel. To view all channels you're a member of, go to your workspace settings and click Channels to see your complete list.

Leaving a channel removes it from your sidebar but preserves all messages and your ability to rejoin later.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Can't see the option to create channels

Check with your workspace admin as channel creation might be restricted. Some workspaces only allow admins or specific roles to create channels.

Channel name is already taken

Try a different name or add numbers/descriptive words. Channel names must be unique within your workspace. Use Browse channels to see if the existing channel serves your purpose.

Unable to find a specific channel

The channel might be private and require an invitation. Contact a team member who might be in that channel or ask your workspace admin for access.

Joined channel doesn't appear in sidebar

Check if the channel is muted or archived. Go to All channels in your sidebar to see muted channels, or refresh your Slack app if the channel still doesn't appear.

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