Messages
Messages let you chat privately with one or more people — separate from your team's channels. This article explains what Messages are, how to start a conversation, share files, and customize your notifications.
What are Messages?
Messages are private conversations, visible only to the people involved. Use Messages for one-on-one chats, small group conversations, or talking with contacts outside a Space — for example external partners or clients.
💡 Messages vs. Channels: Use Channels for shared team work organized by topic or project, where multiple people collaborate over time. Use Messages for direct, private conversations between specific people.
How to start a conversation
Click on a contact's name, or click "Chats" to see your recent chats. Search for the person by username or email address, write your message, and hit send.
To message multiple people at once, simply add more than one contact when starting the conversation — this creates a group chat.
Send files and images
Click the attachment icon in the message field, select a file or image from your device, and send it directly in the conversation. The recipient can view or download it right away.
Reactions and GIFs
Hover over any message to react with an emoji, or click the GIF icon to find and send a GIF. It's a quick way to respond without writing a full reply.
Formatting your messages
Use formatting — bold, italics, lists, and links — to make longer messages easier to read. Select your text and a formatting toolbar will appear.
Notification settings
Click the gear icon in the top right corner to customize how you receive notifications for messages. You can adjust settings per conversation, so you only get notified about what matters to you.
→ Start a video call (Sessions)
→ Share files via Drive
→ Get smart replies with Wingman