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How to Use GIPHY in Slack: Expressing Yourself with GIFs

GIFs (Graphics Interchange Format) have become an integral and fun way to communicate in online platforms like Slack. With Slack’s integration with GIPHY, the world’s largest GIF search engine, you can easily find and share GIFs to liven up conversations.

Installing and Setting Up GIPHY

To start using GIPHY in Slack, you first need to install it:

  1. Go to the Apps menu in your Slack workspace
  2. Search for “GIPHY”
  3. Click on “Add” to install the GIPHY app
  4. In the pop-up window, click on “Add to Slack”
  5. Then click on “Add GIPHY Integration”
  6. Customize the content rating and other settings
  7. Click “Save Integration”

Once GIPHY is installed, any member of your workspace can search and share GIFs.

Sending GIFs in Conversations

Sending GIFs in Slack is very easy:

  1. Type /giphy in the message field
  2. Add a search term related to the GIF you want
  3. Press Enter to search GIPHY’s library
  4. Click on “Shuffle” to view more GIF options
  5. Select the GIF you want to share
  6. Click “Send” to post it in the conversation

You can also search for GIFs related to specific captions using /giphy #caption followed by your desired caption text.

Managing GIPHY Settings

As an admin, you can manage GIPHY’s settings and content rating to control the types of GIFs members can share:

  • Go to GIPHY’s app page
  • Open the dropdown menu
  • Select a content rating option
  • Click “Save Integration”

Lower content ratings exclude more adult-oriented GIFs.

GIPHY Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips to master GIPHY in Slack:

  • Use descriptive keywords in your search to find better GIFs
  • Check “Trending GIFs” for popular and timely animations
  • Browse different GIPHY categories like Reactions, Entertainment, and Sports
  • Create a “Favorite GIFs” collection of your most-used animations
  • Use GIF stickers for a more customizable experience
  • Enable GIPHY’s Slack bot to search hands-free via messaging

Avoiding GIPHY Pitfalls

While GIFs can boost engagement, there are some pitfalls to avoid:

  • Don’t overuse GIFs or replace text with them
  • Ensure GIFs are relevant to the discussion
  • Check that GIFs are appropriate and professional
  • Disable autoplay to prevent disruptive animations
  • Set a reasonable content rating for your workspace

Express Yourself with GIFs

GIPHY makes communicating in Slack more fun and dynamic. With endless GIF categories and reactions, you can find the perfect animation to express emotions and liven up conversations.

Just be sure to use GIFs judiciously, match them to the context, and manage your content settings. With the right approach, GIFs can take your team’s Slack collaboration to the next level!

Conclusion

  • GIPHY integration allows easy GIF sharing in Slack
  • Customize content ratings and settings to control appropriateness
  • Search using keywords and browse Trending/Categories
  • Create Favorites and use stickers for customization
  • Set expectations to avoid overuse or irrelevant GIFs
  • With some thoughtfulness, GIFs boost engagement dramatically!

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