Quick Start
This guide covers every Slack feature:
- Empezando — Create account and basic setup
- How to Use Meeting Platform — Host video calls and huddles directly in Slack
- How to Use Tech Optimizer — Manage your tools and connect apps
- How to Use Slack Connect — Collaborate with external partners securely
- How to Use Workflow Builder — Automate tasks without coding
- How to Use Document Sharing — Share files and collaborate in real time
- How to Use Audio and Video Messaging — Record short videos and voice clips
- How to Use Project Manager — Track tasks and deadlines within channels
- How to Use Data Security and Privacy — Protect your team’s communications
- How to Use Slackbot — Get instant help and set reminders
Time needed: 5 minutes per feature
Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Solución de problemas | Precios | Alternativas
Why Trust This Guide
I’ve used Slack for over 3 years and tested every feature covered here. This how to use Slack tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.
Slack is the place where people, productivity and automatización tools, and communication come together so teams can get their best work done.
But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.
This guide shows you how to use every major feature.
Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.
Slack Tutorial
This complete Slack tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.
Flojo
The collaboration hub where your team communicates in real time. Slack brings channels, direct messages, and apps together in one searchable platform. Start conversations, share files, and connect your favorite tools — all in one place.
Getting Started with Slack
Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.
It takes about 3 minutes.
To get started, download the desktop app and check out the guide for a quick tour.
Now let’s walk through each step.
Step 1: Create Your Account
Go to Slack’s website at slack.com.
Click “Get Started” or “Sign Up.”
Enter your work email and create a password.
✓ Checkpoint: Comprueba tu bandeja de entrada for a confirmation email.
Step 2: Download or Access the App
Download Slack for Impermeable, Windows, iOS, or Android from your device’s app store.
You can also use Slack directly in your browser on any computer.
Log in with your new account.
Here’s what the dashboard looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main sidebar with channels and direct messages.
Step 3: Complete Initial Setup
Ensure your profile information is up to date and upload a profile picture of yourself.
Click your profile picture to manage your profile and preferences.
Set up notifications to be paused during non-work hours.
✅ Done: You’re ready to use any feature below.
How to Use Slack Meeting Platform
Meeting Platform lets you host video calls and huddles directly inside Slack channels.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Meeting Platform in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Start a Huddle
Open any channel or direct message where you want to connect with teammates.
Click the headphone icon in the bottom-left corner to start a huddle.
Step 2: Invite Participants
Your teammates in the channel will see the huddle is active.
They can join instantáneamente by clicking the same headphone icon.
Here’s what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: You should see participant avatars and audio controls.
Step 3: Share Your Screen
Click the screen share button to present your work during the huddle.
You can also turn on your camera for face-to-face conversations.
✅ Result: You’ve started a real-time voz or video session with your team.
💡 Consejo profesional: Huddles are perfect for quick conversations that would take too long to type. They’re available in all paid plans and provide an easy way to communicate without scheduling a formal meeting.
How to Use Slack Tech Optimizer
Tech Optimizer lets you manage your tools and connect your favorite apps to Slack.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Tech Optimizer in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Access the App Directory
Click “More” in the sidebar and select “Apps.”
You can also use the search bar to find specific apps like Google Drive, Fuerza de ventas, or Trello.
Step 2: Install Your Apps
Navegar the App Directory and click “Add” next to the apps you want to connect.
Follow the authorization prompts to give Slack access to your tools.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see your connected apps in the sidebar.
Step 3: Configure App Settings
Click on the installed app to customize notifications and features.
Set which channels receive updates from each connected tool.
✅ Result: Your favorite tools now send notifications and updates directly into Slack.
💡 Consejo profesional: The Slack developer platform revolves around Slack apps. You can explore resources and create custom workflow steps using the Bolt framework for even deeper integration with your tech stack.
How to Use Slack Connect
Slack Connect lets you collaborate with external partners, vendors, and clients securely.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Slack Connect in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Create a Slack Connect Channel
Click the plus icon next to “Channels” in your sidebar.
Select “Create a channel” and toggle on “Share outside your organization.”
Step 2: Invite External Partners
Enter the email addresses of the people you want to collaborate with.
Slack sends them an invitation to join the shared channel.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a “Pending” status next to invited partners.
Step 3: Start Collaborating
Once partners accept, you can post messages, share files, and even start conversations in real time.
Treat it like any internal channel — just with external collaborators.
✅ Result: You’ve created a secure space to work with clients without email chains.
💡 Consejo profesional: Slack Connect channels are great for replacing long email threads. You can mention specific people to get their attention and respond to feedback much faster than traditional communication methods.
How to Use Slack Workflow Builder
Flujo de trabajo Constructor lets you automate repetitive tasks without any coding knowledge.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Workflow Builder in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open Workflow Builder
Click “Automatización” in the sidebar, then select “Workflow Builder.
You can also access it from the “Tools” menu in your workspace settings.
Step 2: Choose a Trigger
Select what starts your workflow — a new channel message, emoji reaction, or scheduled time.
Common triggers include someone joining a channel or posting a specific keyword.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see your trigger connected to the workflow canvas.
Step 3: Add Steps and Publish
Add actions like sending a message, creating a form, or updating a channel.
Click “Publish” when ready to make your workflow live.
✅ Result: Your automation runs automatically whenever the trigger conditions are met.
💡 Consejo profesional: Slack offers a no-code tool to build workflows called Workflow Builder. Use it to automate onboarding, collect feedback from your community, or send reminders — all without writing a single line of code.
How to Use Slack Document Sharing
Document Sharing lets you upload files and collaborate on documents within channels.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Document Sharing in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Upload a File
Click the plus icon in the message field and select “Upload from your computer.”
You can also drag and drop files directly into any channel or direct message.
Step 2: Add Context and Share
Write a brief description of the file before sending.
Tag the right people using @mentions to get their attention.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the file preview appear in the channel.
Step 3: Search and Access Files Later
Use the search bar to find any file you’ve shared or received.
Click “Files” in the sidebar to browse all documents in your workspace.
✅ Result: Your documents are now accessible to the right team members.
💡 Consejo profesional: Slack allows users to upload files from their computer to share important information in conversations. Connect Google Drive or Dropbox to share files without leaving Slack and keep everything searchable.
How to Use Slack Audio and Video Messaging
Audio and Video Messaging lets you record short videos and voice clips to share asynchronously.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Audio and Video Messaging in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Record a Video Clip
Click the video camera icon in the message field.
Allow Slack to access your camera and microphone when prompted.
Step 2: Review and Send
Click the red record button to start recording your clip.
Watch your recording and reshoot if needed before sending.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see your video preview with playback controls.
Step 3: Record Audio-Only Clips
Click the microphone icon instead for voice-only messages.
Perfect for quick updates when you don’t need to be on camera.
✅ Result: You’ve sent a personal video or voice message that teammates can watch on their own time.
💡 Consejo profesional: Slack videos and short videos are great for explaining complex topics that would take too long to type. Use them to provide detailed feedback, walk through design changes, or share quick updates with your community.
How to Use Slack Project Manager
Gerente de proyecto lets you track tasks and deadlines directly within Slack channels.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Project Manager in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Create a Canvas
Click the canvas icon in any channel to create a shared workspace.
Name your canvas to reflect the project or topic.
Step 2: Add Tasks and Checklists
Use the checklist feature to add action items with assignees and due dates.
Team members can check off tasks as they complete them.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see your tasks listed with checkboxes.
Step 3: Set Reminders
Use Slackbot to set reminders for important deadlines.
Type /remind in any channel to schedule a notification.
✅ Result: Your project details are organized and accessible to everyone on the team.
💡 Consejo profesional: You can access a list of your saved items and reminders from the sidebar. Use Canvas to keep all your project documentation, notas de la reunión, and resources in one place that your whole team can access.
How to Use Slack Data Security and Privacy
Datos Seguridad y privacidad lets you protect your team’s communications and control access.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Data Security and Privacy in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Click your profile picture and select “Preferences.”
Navigate to “Account” and enable two-factor authentication.
Step 2: Manage Channel Privacy
Create private channels for sensitive discussions that only invited members can access.
Understand the difference between public and private channels.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a lock icon next to private channels.
Step 3: Review App Permissions
Go to workspace settings and review which apps have access to your data.
Remove any apps you no longer use or trust.
✅ Result: Your workspace is now configured with stronger security controls.
💡 Consejo profesional: Enterprise Grid customers can use Enterprise Key Management for additional data protection. Check your workspace settings regularly to make sure only authorized apps and users have access to sensitive content.
How to Use Slack Slackbot
Slackbot lets you get instant help, set reminders, and automate simple responses.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Slackbot in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Set a Reminder
Type /remind @me [message] [time] in any channel or DM.
Slackbot will notify you at the scheduled time.
Step 2: Ask Slackbot Questions
Open a direct message with Slackbot by searching for it in the sidebar.
Ask questions about Slack features to get documentation and help.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see Slackbot’s response in your DM thread.
Step 3: Create Custom Responses
Workspace admins can create custom Slackbot responses for common questions.
Go to Settings > Customize > Slackbot to add new triggers.
✅ Result: Slackbot now assists your team with reminders and answers common questions.
💡 Consejo profesional: AI-powered tools like Slackbot and Agentforce provide assistance by summarizing information and enhancing efficiency. Use Slackbot’s custom responses to assist new team members with frequently asked questions about your job, practice, or workspace.
Slack Pro Tips and Shortcuts
After testing Slack for over 3 years, here are my best tips to stay productive and organized.
Atajos de teclado
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Quick Switcher (search channels) | Cmd/Ctrl + K |
| New Message | Cmd/Ctrl + N |
| Search Everything | Cmd/Ctrl + G |
| Edit Last Message | ↑ Arrow |
| Mark All as Read | Shift + Esc |
| Toggle Sidebar | Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + D |
Hidden Features Most People Miss
- Sidebar Sections: Liberally use channel muting and sidebar sections to keep the noise to a dull roar. Create custom sections for starred channels, DMs, and project-specific topics.
- User Groups: You can create user groups to notify groups of people at once rather than mentioning each person individually. Perfect for teams, departments, or cross-functional groups.
- Reacciones Emoji: Emoji reactions are a quick way to respond to any message in Slack. Use them to acknowledge messages without cluttering the channel with “thanks” replies.
- Thread Replies: Keep conversations organized by replying in threads rather than the main channel. This helps others follow the main topic without getting lost. It matters that everyone can find context when they need it.
- Scheduled Messages: When your message has landed, you can schedule sends for the right time. This is helpful for sending messages to teammates in different time zones or scheduling updates for company events.
Slack Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Using DMs for Everything
❌ Wrong: Sending every conversation through direct messages, making it impossible for others to find context or join discussions.
✅ Right: Use DMs for one-off conversations that don’t require an entire channel of people to weigh in. I agree that some things should be private, but for project work, use channels so conversations are searchable and accessible to the team.
Mistake #2: Not Setting Notification Boundaries
❌ Wrong: Leaving all notifications on and getting pinged 24/7, leading to burnout and distraction.
✅ Right: Set up notifications to be paused during non-work hours. Customize which channels can send you alerts and set your status to “Do Not Disturb” when you need focus time. You can leave the rest to catch up más tarde.
Mistake #3: Creating Too Many Channels
❌ Wrong: Making a new channel for every minor topic, leading to channel sprawl and confusion about where to post or comment.
✅ Right: Channels are fundamental to working in Slack — they bring the right people, information, and tools together in one place. Create channels with clear purposes and archive inactive ones to keep your workspace organized.
Slack Troubleshooting
Problem: Messages Not Syncing Across Dispositivos
Cause: Network connectivity issues or outdated app versions.
Arreglar: Check your internet connection and update Slack to the latest version. Sign out and sign back in if the issue persists.
Problem: Can’t Find an Old Message
Cause: Free plan limits searchable messages to 90 days of history.
Arreglar: Use the search bar with specific keywords, dates, or sender names. Upgrade to a paid plan for unlimited message history and full search access.
Problem: Notifications Not Working
Cause: Do Not Disturb settings, muted channels, or device notification permissions.
Arreglar: Check your notification preferences in Slack settings. Verify that your device allows Slack notifications and that the channel isn’t muted.
📌 Nota: If none of these fix your issue, contact Slack support at slack.com/help.
¿Qué es Slack?
Flojo is a collaboration hub that enables real-time communications and connections in a searchable platform for messaging, content sharing, learning, and more.
Think of it like your team’s digital headquarters where conversations, files, and tools come together.
Watch this quick overview:
It includes these key features:
- Meeting Platform: Host video calls and huddles for real-time voice communication
- Tech Optimizer: Connect and manage your favorite productivity tools and apps
- Slack Connect: Collaborate securely with external partners and clients
- Workflow Builder: Automate repetitive tasks with a no-code tool
- Document Sharing: Upload and share files within any channel or direct message
- Audio and Video Messaging: Record short videos for asynchronous communication
- Project Manager: Track tasks with Canvas and built-in checklists
- Data Security and Privacy: Protect communications with enterprise-grade security
- Slackbot: Get help, set reminders, and automate responses instantly
For a full review, see our Slack review.
Slack Pricing
Here’s what Slack costs in 2026:
| Plan | Precio | Mejor para |
|---|---|---|
| Gratis | $0 | Small teams testing Slack with 90-day message history |
| Pro | $7.25/user/month (annual) | Growing teams needing unlimited history and integrations |
| Negocios+ | $15/user/month (annual) | Larger organizations requiring SSO and advanced AI features |
| Enterprise Grid | Contactar con Ventas | Large enterprises with complex security and compliance needs |
Prueba gratuita: Yes, Slack offers a free tier with 90 days of searchable messages.
Garantía de devolución de dinero: Pro-rated refunds available for annual plans.
💰 Best Value: Pro plan at $7.25/user/month — gives you unlimited message history and full integrations at a reasonable price for most teams.
Slack vs Alternatives
How does Slack compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:
Watch this comparison:
| Herramienta | Mejor para | Precio | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flojo | Team messaging and app integrations | $7.25/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
| Equipos de Microsoft | Microsoft 365 integration | $4/mo | ⭐ 4.3 |
| Google Chat | Google Workspace users | Included | ⭐ 4.2 |
| Discordia | Communities and gaming | Free/$9.99 | ⭐ 4.4 |
| Zenzap | Small team communication | £6/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Twist | Async-first communication | $8/mes | ⭐ 4.1 |
| Mattermost | Self-hosted and security-focused | $10/mo | ⭐ 4.3 |
Quick picks:
- Best overall: Slack — Excellent for team messaging with 2,600+ app integrations
- Best budget: Google Chat — Free with Google Workspace subscription
- Best for beginners: Microsoft Teams — Familiar for Office users, easy learning curve
- Best for async teams: Twist — Built for remote-first organizations that prefer written communication
🎯 Slack Alternatives
Looking for Slack alternatives? Here are the top options:
- 🏢 Equipos de Microsoft: Best for organizations already using Microsoft 365. Includes video meetings, file storage, and Office app integration in one platform.
- 💰 Chat de Google: Perfect for Google Workspace users. Included free with your subscription and integrates with Gmail, Calendar, and Drive.
- 🎮 Discordia: Great for communities and creative teams. Strong voice chat and screen sharing with a free tier that covers most needs.
- ⚡ Zenzap: Lightweight messaging app for small teams who want simple communication without the complexity of larger platforms.
- 🧠 Girar: Built for async-first teams. Organizes discussions into threads so remote workers can communicate without real-time pressure.
- 🔒 Lo más importante: Open-source and self-hosted option for security-conscious organizations who need complete control over their data.
For the full list, see our Slack alternatives guide.
⚔️ Slack Compared
Here’s how Slack stacks up against each competitor:
- Slack vs Microsoft Teams: Slack wins on third-party app integrations and design. Teams wins on price if you already pay for Microsoft 365. Choose Slack for best-in-class messaging experience.
- Slack vs Google Chat: Slack offers deeper customization and more integrations. Google Chat is simpler and free with Workspace. Choose Slack if you need advanced workflows.
- Slack vs Discord: Slack is built for professional teams with enterprise security. Discord targets communities and gamers. Choose Slack for negocio, Discord for casual groups.
- Slack vs Zenzap: Slack offers more features and integrations. Zenzap keeps things simple and affordable. Choose Slack for growing teams, Zenzap for basic messaging needs.
- Slack vs Twist: Slack excels at real-time communication. Twist prioritizes async, threaded discussions. Choose Slack for fast-moving teams, Twist for remote-first async cultures.
- Slack vs Mattermost: Slack is cloud-hosted with easy setup. Mattermost lets you self-host with full data control. Choose Slack for convenience, Mattermost for security and compliance.
Start Using Slack Now
You learned how to use every major Slack feature:
- ✅ Meeting Platform
- ✅ Tech Optimizer
- ✅ Slack Connect
- ✅ Workflow Builder
- ✅ Document Sharing
- ✅ Audio and Video Messaging
- ✅ Project Manager
- ✅ Data Security and Privacy
- ✅ Slackbot
Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.
Most people start with creating channels and organizing their workspace.
It takes less than 5 minutes.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is Slack used for?
Slack is used for team communication and collaboration. It replaces email chains with organized channels where teams can send messages, share files, and connect their favorite tools. Companies use Slack to start conversations, manage projects, and keep everyone aligned — whether they’re in the office or working remotely.
Can my boss see what I do on Slack?
It depends on your workspace settings and plan. Workspace admins can export public channel messages and may have access to analytics about activity. On Enterprise plans with compliance features, organizations can export direct messages too. Check with your IT department to understand your company’s specific policies about data access and privacy.
How is Slack different from texting?
Slack is designed for work communication with features that texting doesn’t provide. You can organize conversations into channels by topic, search all your message history, integrate with hundreds of apps, share files, and collaborate with external partners. Texting is one-to-one; Slack creates a searchable knowledge base for your entire organization.
Why do people use Slack instead of email?
Slack provides faster, more organized communication than email. Messages are instant and threaded, so you can respond to feedback quickly without long email chains. You can mention specific people to get their attention, and everything stays searchable. Slack also integrates with tools like Salesforce and Google Drive, bringing your workflows into one place.
Is Slack a free app?
Yes, Slack offers a free plan that includes basic features like 90 days of searchable messages, 10 app integrations, and one-on-one video calls. The free tier is great for small teams getting started. Paid plans starting at $7.25 per user per month add unlimited history, more integrations, and advanced features like user groups and guest access.
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