Slack Best Practices

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⚙️ General Slack Etiquette

Communicate using threads: if you want to respond to a message, use the "Reply in thread" function - do not reply as a top-level message in the channel (the original poster will not be notified about your reply). When replying in thread, do not use the "reply on channel" feature.
Use emojis! Replace short follow up messages with emoji reactions to avoid crowding Channels. React with an emoji by hovering over the message or press and hold the message if you’re on mobile then select the emoji you’d like to react with.
Default to posting in public channels. Use private groups and direct messages (DMs) for sensitive material, reports, or coordination between individuals that could spam public channels. Get consent when possible and exercise care when sending DM to other members.

Use concise and helpful formatting. People are more likely to act on your message if it's concise and well-formatted.
- If it’s longer than half a screen, it’s probably too long. Post a summary and put details into a thread.
- Highlight key parts of the message to help people scan it quickly (e.g. bold 1-2 key pieces of info).
- Do not use attention-grabbing formatting practices, such as excessive capitalization, emojis, or image attachments. Messages that use distracting formatting will be removed.
Avoid use of @channel or @here features. These are reserved for use by moderators.
- To avoid unnecessary alerts and notifications, we ask that community members do not use these features. Moderators will boost messages to help you get a response if you have not received one. If you have any concerns about your message, please reach out to a community leader.