107: Private Messages

[toc]

Private Messages

Private messages allow you to send one-to-one conversations to colleagues. Private messages are similar to email. A private message is different from a chat because private messages are sent one at a time whereas a chat is a real-time dialog between two or more online users.

How do I enable private messages and notifications in my settings?

Settings > Notifications contains two settings regarding private messages:

On the Notifications tab, [Notify me if someone] Sends me a private message or replies to my private message.
Enable private message notifications - This settings is enabled by default. It means that you will receive notifications when you're sent a private message.
Allow private messages from - This option lets you choose whom to receive messages from. The options include:
- None - that is, no one can send you private messages
- Friends only - only users who are your friends can send you private messages
- All users - any user can send you a private message

How do I view my private messages?

When you click View all in the message list or click a Live Alert, the Inbox appears. The conversations are listed with the newest first. Clicking the conversation displays all the private messages in it. Note that from the Inbox, you can add a conversation by clicking New or delete a conversation with Delete. Reply to the message by clicking Reply or reply to the existing conversation with "Write a reply" located at the bottom of the window.

Respond to private messages

When you click New or Reply, the enhanced text editor opens for you to create a new conversation or compose a reply.

Where can I send a private message?

Activity story stream story status message or comment options ("Send a private message" link)
On the user's profile page "Send a private message" link
From the Inbox" Add new" link