On September 3, 2024, Slack replaced Signal as our new internal communication platform. This guide covers the basics, features, and best practices to help you get started.
Basic Features
Setting Up Your Profile
Complete your profile: Add your full name, display name, profile picture, and job title.
Navigation Basics
Left Panel Overview:
Channels: Organized conversations based on topics (e.g., SEO, Projects).
Direct Messages (DMs): One-on-one or group chats (up to 9 people).
Channels:
Public Channels: Open for anyone on the team to join.
Private Channels: Restricted to specific team members.
Some Key Channels and Their Purposes
#mas-internal: For company-wide announcements (e.g., policy updates).
#mas-student-support: For student related tasks, announcements, and other matters.
#mas-leads-for-dk: For leads/prospective students who need to be contacted. These leads come from the site contact forms, website registrations, and referrals from students.
#mas-site-and-flow: For tasks and announcements related to website updates including the registration flow pages/forms.
#mas-kudos-and-wins: Celebrate milestones and team achievements.
#mas-watercooler: A casual space for non-work-related conversations.
Here are some channels that have been archived as of January 2025:
#mas-tech-issues: Report technical problems and request support.
#ops-urgent: For high-priority tasks requiring immediate attention.
Slack Features
Threaded Conversations: Keep discussions organized by replying in threads.
Drafts and Scheduled Messages: Save unfinished messages or schedule them for later.
Starred Channels: Pin essential channels to stay on top of updates.
Mentions: Use @channel, @here, or @everyone to tag specific groups.
Auto-Transcriptions: Automatically transcribe voice notes and videos.
Canvas: A collaborative space for brainstorming and sharing notes.
Pins and Bookmarks: Save important messages or links for easy access.
Save for Later: Bookmark messages to review when you have time.
Reminders: Use /remind to set personal or team reminders.
Large File Sharing: Upload large files (e.g., videos) directly to Slack.
Slash Commands
/remind: Set reminders for yourself or channels (e.g., /remind me to send an invoice every Monday).
/zoom: Quickly start a Zoom meeting.
/giphy: Add a GIF to lighten the mood (e.g., /giphy welcome).
Best Practices
Acknowledge Messages: React with emojis (e.g., ✅, 👍, ❤️) to show you've read them.
Reply in Threads: Keep discussions organized and avoid clutter.
Update Your Status: Use statuses like "BRB" (Be Right Back) or "On Leave" to keep your team informed.
Demo Video
Here's a video that can provide additional insights:
Slack is designed to improve collaboration and streamline communication. Explore its features, and enjoy your new workspace!
How to Customize Your Shortcut Emojis for Slack Messages
Customizing your quick-access emojis in Slack can save you time and make it easier to respond to messages. Here’s a step-by-step guide to set up your three favorite shortcut emojis:
Open Slack, click your profile picture in the bottom left corner, and select Preferences from the menu.
Go to the Messages & Media section.
At the bottom of the Messages & Media settings, you’ll find an option to customize your three shortcut emojis.
Click to choose or replace your current favorites with the emojis you use most often.
Once your favorite emojis are set:
Hover over a message in your chat.
Click one of your three chosen emojis to quickly react.
This method eliminates the need to right-click a message, select "Add Reaction," and search for an emoji.
By setting up shortcut emojis, you can streamline your interactions in Slack and respond to messages more efficiently. Happy chatting!