Slack has become an essential tool for marketing teams worldwide, enabling seamless communication, collaboration, and productivity. While many teams are familiar with the basics, there are countless hidden features and hacks that can take your Slack game to the next level. Here are 18 epic Slack hacks every marketing team should know to boost efficiency and make the most out of this powerful platform.
1. Pin Important Messages
How to Use It
Pinning messages keeps crucial information easily accessible at the top of the channel. This is perfect for announcements, key documents, or ongoing project details.
Steps
- Hover over the message.
- Click the “More actions” button (three dots).
- Select “Pin to channel.”
Benefits
- Quick access to important information.
- Reduces repetitive questions.
2. Set Reminders
How to Use It
Slack’s reminder feature ensures you never forget a task or meeting.
Steps
- Type
/remind
followed by your reminder details. - Example:
/remind me to check the campaign results at 2 PM
.
Benefits
- Keeps track of deadlines and tasks.
- Personal and team reminders.
3. Utilize Slackbot for FAQs
How to Use It
Program Slackbot to respond automatically to frequently asked questions, saving time and streamlining information flow.
Steps
- Go to “Customize Slack” in your workspace.
- Click “Slackbot” and set custom responses.
Benefits
- Instant answers to common questions.
- Reduces interruptions for routine queries.
4. Use Advanced Search Modifiers
How to Use It
Find exactly what you need with advanced search options.
Tips
from:username
: Messages from a specific user.in:channel
: Messages in a specific channel.has:link
: Messages containing links.
Benefits
- Quickly locate specific messages or files.
- Efficiently manage large volumes of communication.
5. Integrate with Google Drive
How to Use It
Easily share and access Google Drive files within Slack.
Steps
- Go to “Apps” and search for Google Drive.
- Follow the prompts to connect your account.
Benefits
- Seamless file sharing and collaboration.
- Instant notifications for Google Drive activities.
6. Create To-Do Lists with Todoist Integration
How to Use It
Manage your tasks directly in Slack with Todoist.
Steps
- Search for Todoist in Slack’s “Apps” section.
- Connect your Todoist account.
Benefits
- Keep track of tasks without leaving Slack.
- Collaborative task management.
7. Utilize Custom Emojis
How to Use It
Add a fun and personal touch to your communications with custom emojis.
Steps
- Go to “Customize Slack” in your workspace.
- Click “Emoji” and upload your custom image.
Benefits
- Enhance team culture and engagement.
- Visual way to acknowledge and respond.
8. Automate Daily Stand-Ups
How to Use It
Use Slack’s Workflow Builder to automate daily stand-up meetings.
Steps
- Open Workflow Builder from the main menu.
- Create a new workflow and choose a trigger (e.g., schedule).
- Add steps to collect and share updates.
Benefits
- Saves time on routine meetings.
- Ensures consistent updates from team members.
9. Channel Naming Conventions
How to Use It
Implement a standardized naming convention for channels to keep things organized.
Tips
- Prefix channels with departments (
#marketing-...
,#sales-...
). - Use project names for temporary channels (
#project-new-website
).
Benefits
- Easier navigation and organization.
- Clearer structure for new members.
10. Keyboard Shortcuts
How to Use It
Mastering keyboard shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow.
Examples
Ctrl + K
(Windows) orCmd + K
(Mac): Quick switcher to jump between channels.Ctrl + /
(Windows) orCmd + /
(Mac): View all shortcuts.
Benefits
- Faster navigation.
- Enhanced productivity.
11. Use Threads to Keep Conversations Organized
How to Use It
Threads help maintain organized and focused conversations within a channel.
Steps
- Click “Reply in thread” below a message.
- Continue the conversation in the thread.
Benefits
- Reduces clutter in channels.
- Keeps related discussions together.
12. Bookmark Important Items
How to Use It
Use Slack’s bookmarks feature to quickly access important links, files, or messages.
Steps
- Click the bookmark icon at the top of the channel.
- Add links, files, or messages.
Benefits
- Easy access to frequently used resources.
- Keeps critical information readily available.
13. Slack Calls for Quick Meetings
How to Use It
Start a voice or video call directly in Slack for quick meetings.
Steps
- Click the call button (phone icon) in the channel or direct message.
- Start your call.
Benefits
- Instant communication.
- Reduces the need for separate meeting software.
14. Status Customization
How to Use It
Customize your Slack status to inform your team of your availability or current activity.
Steps
- Click your profile picture.
- Set a status and choose an emoji.
Benefits
- Communicates your availability.
- Helps manage expectations.
15. Star Important Channels and Messages
How to Use It
Starring channels and messages keeps them easily accessible.
Steps
- Click the star icon next to a channel or message.
- Access starred items from the sidebar.
Benefits
- Quick access to priority items.
- Keeps your focus on essential tasks.
16. Polls and Surveys with Simple Poll
How to Use It
Gather team opinions and feedback with the Simple Poll integration.
Steps
- Search for Simple Poll in Slack’s “Apps” section.
- Follow the instructions to create a poll.
Benefits
- Easy way to gather team input.
- Engages team members in decision-making.
17. Use Workflow Builder for Custom Automations
How to Use It
Create custom workflows to automate repetitive tasks and streamline processes.
Steps
- Open Workflow Builder from the main menu.
- Create a new workflow with custom triggers and actions.
Benefits
- Automates routine tasks.
- Increases efficiency and consistency.
18. Explore Slack App Directory
How to Use It
The Slack App Directory offers hundreds of integrations to enhance your workflow.
Tips
- Browse categories relevant to your team’s needs.
- Integrate tools like Trello, Asana, and HubSpot.
Benefits
- Expands Slack’s functionality.
- Customizes your Slack workspace to fit your team’s workflow.
These 18 Slack hacks can transform the way your marketing team communicates and collaborates. By leveraging these tips and tricks, you can streamline your workflows, boost productivity, and create a more engaging and efficient work environment. Start incorporating these hacks today and watch your team’s efficiency soar!