Before you start
You can message up to 9 other people in a single direct message. To reach a larger group, create a channel instead — see How to Create and Manage Channels.
Note: The Working today filter narrows the people list to staff scheduled to work today. This filter is available only to Administrators.
Send a message in the web app
Send a message in the web app
Direct messages live in the Messages area of the web app. Start a new one from the left sidebar.
In the left sidebar, click Messages.
Under Direct messages, click the plus icon (+).
Search for a person by name, or use the All departments dropdown to filter the list by department.
Check the box next to each person you want to message. Select one person, or up to 9 people for a group message.
Type your message in the box at the bottom.
Click Send.
Your message sends, and the conversation appears under Direct messages in the left sidebar.
Send a message in the mobile app
Send a message in the mobile app
The mobile app follows the same steps as the web app, with one extra tap — you confirm your recipients with Continue before you type.
Tap Messages in the bottom navigation bar.
Tap the compose icon in the top-right corner to start a new message. To continue a conversation with someone you've messaged before, tap their name instead.
You may also tap the + icon to start a direct message.
Search for people and check the box next to each name. Select up to 9 people.
Tap Continue.
Type your message, then tap the send icon.
Your message sends, and the conversation opens.
Common questions
Q: Why can't I find someone in my direct messages list?
A: Your Direct messages list shows only your 15 most recent conversations, in both the web and mobile apps. If you've messaged more than 15 people, type the person's name in the search bar to find your older conversations.
Q: How many people can I add to one direct message?
A: Up to 9 other people. To reach a larger group, create a channel instead — see How to Create and Manage Channels.
Q: What is the Working today filter?
A: It narrows the people list to staff who are scheduled to work today, so you can quickly message whoever is on shift. This filter is available only to Administrators.
Q: Can I message a staff member without opening the Messages tab?
A: Yes. Anywhere you see a staff member's name — on the Schedule, Team, or Analytics pages — click their name to open their staff card, then message them from there.
Q: Can I delete my messages?
A: You can delete individual messages in case you made a mistake, but are unable to delete entire direct message conversations.