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How to send direct messages on Slack

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18
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'.

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Prerequisites

  • A Slack account
  • Access to a Slack workspace
  • Slack app installed or browser access
  • Basic familiarity with Slack interface

Step-by-Step Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pin important direct message conversations by right-clicking and selecting 'Star conversation' to keep them at the top of your sidebar.

Common Issues & 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.

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