How To Use Slack: A Guide for Beginners

Image Source: Unsplash‍

In the past few years, there has been a marked increase in the number of collaboration and communication apps that are available. From Google Hangouts to Skype, so many options exist. However, one communication software is seeing an uptick among businesses: Slack. This article will go over what Slack is, why it’s useful for your team, different ways to use Slack and get the most out of it as a team. You will also learn about general best practices for using Slack as well as some useful tips for getting started with Slack and its integrations.

What is Slack?

Slack is a collaboration and communication app that allows users to create teams and channels for different projects and topics. Slack created their app with the aim of increasing productivity and communication within businesses. The app is designed to bring all of your communication together in one place so you can find what you need quickly and respond to colleagues more efficiently. - The ability to create channels for topics - The ability to add as many collaborators as you need - The ability to integrate with apps, services, and programs.

Why is Slack so popular?

Since its launch, Slack has seen a rise in users. In fact, in 2018, the app saw an 80% increase in users. These numbers are likely due to the fact that Slack is very accessible — all you need is an internet connection and a computer. There are also no contracts or fees to use the program. In addition, Slack’s features are intuitive and allow users to create channels, send messages, and invite others to join in on the conversation. Moreover, Slack is also very customizable. Users can change the font and font size, screen background, and sound. With these features, Slack is an easy way for teams to communicate, share files, and stay organized.

How to sign up for Slack?

In order to use Slack, you will need to create an account. To do so, go to the Slack website and click on “Try for Free.” You will then be prompted to enter your email address and set up a password. After you click “Create My Account,” you will be prompted to add your name, company name, and additional information. If you are signing up as an individual (i.e., not as an organization), you will be prompted to enter your name, email address, and a password. Next, you will be prompted to select your team type. You can select to create a new team, join an existing team, or create a team with a paid subscription. If you choose to create a new team, you will be prompted to enter your team name, domain name, and create a username for your team. Once you’ve created your account, you can then start inviting members to your team and creating channels. You can invite members to your team using their email address. You can invite individuals or entire organizations by typing “@” and then their email address.

How to use the Search function in Slack

The search function in Slack is designed to help users find different types of messages and files. You can use this search function to look for specific messages, files, and even people. To use the search function, click the magnifying glass icon in the upper-right corner of your Slack window. To search for messages and files, type what you are trying to find in the search bar. To search for people, click the person icon in the search bar. To refine your search, select what you would like to search. You can search for specific channels, people, or files. You can also select what you are searching for. If you are searching for specific messages, you can select “Show as” and then “All messages” or “Only unread messages.” If you are searching for files, you can select the file type.

How to use the Events function in Slack

The Events function in Slack allows you to track events and follow up on commitments among your team members. You can create events for anything you need follow up on, such as an upcoming meeting, project deadlines, or any other to-do items. To create an event, go to “Conversations” and then click the plus (+) button in the upper-right corner of your Slack window. Select “New Event” and enter the details for your event. You can enter a date, start time, end date, and any relevant information. You can also add people to an event. To do so, click the event you created and then click “Invite People” and select who to add to the event.

How to use the Chat function in Slack

The Chat function in Slack allows you to have conversations with your colleagues and teammates. You can click “Find a Team” on the Slack homepage to search for existing teams or click “Start a New Team” to create a new one. Once you have your team set up, you can then start a conversation by clicking on the plus (+) button in the lower-left corner of your Slack window and selecting “Start a Conversation.” Complete the fields for the name of your conversation and add in any relevant details. You can also add people to the conversation by clicking the plus (+) button and selecting “Invite People.” Select who you want to add to the conversation and they will receive a notification to join.

The Bottom Line

Slack has seen an increase in users over the past few years. This increase is likely due to the fact that Slack is accessible, intuitive, and customizable. With these features, Slack has become a useful tool for teams looking to increase their productivity and communication. With this guide, you should now have a better idea of what Slack is, how to use it, and why so many people are using it. You can now go ahead and start using Slack to collaborate with your team!