Direct messages

Direct messages let you have private, one-to-one conversations with other members without the exchange being visible to anyone else. Use them when something is personal, sensitive, or simply not relevant to a broader group.

Opening your inbox

Select the Inbox icon in the sidebar (next to search) to see your notifications and direct messages in one place. It shows a combined unread count for both. Inside, notifications are pinned at the top, followed by your conversations, most recent first.

Starting a conversation

You can message anyone you're connected with. If you don't already have a conversation with someone, connect with them first — from their profile page, or by sharing your personal connect link or QR code (found on your own Profile page) — then choose New message from your inbox and select them from your connections to start the conversation. Once you send your first message, a conversation thread is created that you can return to at any time.

Cross-organization messaging

Direct messages work across organizations. If you and another person both have accounts on the platform, you can message each other regardless of which organizations you each belong to — you don't need to share an organization in common, only a connection.

Staying on top of new messages

New messages show up as an unread count on the Inbox icon in the sidebar. There isn't a separate email or push alert for direct messages today, so check your inbox to see if you have anything new.

Managing your inbox

Your conversation list shows your most recent conversations first, and there is no limit on how many you can have. There isn't a way to search within your messages or archive a thread yet — inactive conversations just settle toward the bottom of the list.

Staying safe

Treat direct messages like any private conversation. There isn't a dedicated report or block button inside a message thread today. If someone sends you harassing or inappropriate messages, the best step is to stop responding and reach out to one of your organizations for help.

Why this matters

Direct messages give you a way to coordinate with fellow members, follow up on a conversation from an event, or ask a question you would rather not pose publicly. Having a private channel that works across organizations means your network is not siloed to a single group. Whether you are coordinating on a project, staying in touch with a contact from another organization, or just checking in with someone, direct messages keep those connections accessible in one place.