How to use Slack huddles

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for Slack huddles.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To use Slack huddles, simply navigate to a channel or direct message, click on the headphone icon located in the top right corner, and start your huddle. Participants can join by clicking on the same icon and can communicate via audio and video.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting with Slack huddles, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •A valid Slack account with access to a workspace.
  • •Slack desktop app (Windows or macOS) or mobile app (iOS or Android) installed.
  • •Stable internet connection.
  • •Microphone and camera (for video huddles) enabled and functioning.

Method 1: Starting a Huddle in a Channel or DM

This method is the most common way to initiate a huddle, suitable for quick discussions.
  • •Step 1: Open the Slack app and navigate to the desired channel or direct message (DM).
  • •Step 2: Click on the headphone icon located in the top right corner of the channel or DM window.
  • •Step 3: A pop-up will appear confirming the start of the huddle. Click 'Start Huddle' to proceed.
  • •Step 4: To verify it worked, check that the huddle interface appears, showing participant options and audio settings.
  • •Step 5: If it doesn't work, ensure your microphone and camera permissions are enabled in your device settings.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users may notice a slightly different interface.
  • •Ensure your Slack app is updated via the Microsoft Store.
  • •Right-click the Slack icon in the taskbar and select 'Check for updates' if necessary.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users should follow similar steps but may have different settings access.
  • •Check your audio settings by right-clicking the speaker icon in the taskbar and selecting 'Open Sound settings'.
  • •Ensure the correct input and output devices are selected.

Method 2: Joining an Existing Huddle

This method is useful for joining a huddle initiated by someone else.
  • •Step 1: Look for the headphone icon in the channel or DM where the huddle is taking place.
  • •Step 2: Click on the icon to join the huddle. If the huddle is active, you will see a prompt to join.
  • •Step 3: Confirm your audio and video settings before entering the huddle.
  • •Step 4: To verify, you should see the huddle interface and hear other participants.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while using Slack huddles, refer to the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Unable to start huddle' - Solution: Check your internet connection and ensure your Slack app is updated.
  • •Issue: 'No audio' - Fix: Verify that your microphone is selected in the audio settings and not muted.
  • •Problem: 'Can't join huddle' - Workaround: Ensure the huddle is still active and that you have the necessary permissions.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Slack huddle experience with these tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + H (Windows) / Command + Shift + H (Mac) - Quickly start a huddle.
  • •Command line: /huddle - Start a huddle directly from the message input area.
  • •Hidden feature: Huddle settings - Access additional settings by clicking on the gear icon in the huddle interface.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing Slack huddles effectively can streamline communication and enhance team collaboration.