A direct message is a private thread between two teammates. Use it for quick questions and one-to-one feedback, and use a channel when a group needs the answer.
No credit card required · All Apps Included · Upgrade or cancel anytime
What a work DM is for
Conversations between two people that belong in the workspace, alongside the rest of the team history.
Two people
A thread between two account holders, with files shared in that thread.
A file for one person
A draft, a review, or a screenshot that belongs with one teammate.
A quick question with a name on it
Ask the person directly and keep the answer in one place.
Searchable later
Search your direct messages by a word or a filename.
Threads and reactions
Reply in a thread or react with an emoji to keep the exchange short.
A channel for the group
When several people need the outcome, post it where they can see it.
How to use direct messages well
Keep the one-to-one conversation useful and the group decision visible.
1. Message the person
Use a direct message for a question only one teammate needs to answer.
2. Keep it to one topic
A conversation that keeps growing is ready to become a channel.
3. Move group topics to a channel
When a third person needs the thread, start a channel and give it a name.
4. Post the conclusion
Write the outcome in the channel where the team will look for it.
Direct message, private channel, or text
Choose by how many people need to find the conversation later.
A group can be added on purpose
SS
Private channel
Personal text
Searchable in the work workspace
SS
Private channel
Personal text
Capability
SS
Private channel
Personal text
Two people
A group can be added on purpose
Searchable in the work workspace
Work direct messages FAQ
Pairs, files, and when to move to a channel.
Use a DM when only one teammate needs to see the message. Use a channel when the group needs it.
Yes. The file stays in that thread, the same as in a channel, and you can preview it there.
A DM is a conversation between two people. When a group needs the thread, create a private channel. See private team channels.