Why You Should Communicate Publicly

Today, communication in tech companies mostly happens over text — platforms like Slack, Mattermost, or Microsoft Teams dominate the scene. If you glance over someone’s shoulder, you’ll likely see a mix of public discussion channels (some with tons of people in them), private channels (not always work-related …), and direct messages.

When you’re sitting at your desk, it can be tempting to solve issues by directly messaging the person most likely to have the answer. But I want to encourage you to make the effort to communicate publicly whenever possible. Ideally, use public channels. If you’re addressing someone specific, just mention them in the message.

💡 Communicating publicly is a small effort with big rewards. It may feel awkward at first, especially if you’re new to the company and want to avoid making mistakes in front of everyone, or if you’re very junior and feeling self-conscious. But the benefits far outweigh the discomfort — both for you and for the company.

Why Should You Communicate Publicly?

1. Better Knowledge Sharing 📚

By posting your questions or thoughts in public channels, you allow others to benefit from the discussion. Even if your question was intended for a specific person, others can read, reflect, and maybe even contribute their own insights. Who knows? Someone else might solve your issue, even if they weren’t tagged.

2. Searchable Solutions for the Future 🔍

When you communicate publicly, your questions and their answers become searchable. Someone in the future, facing the same issue, might find the solution because you took the time to ask in a public space. Sharing your “naive” question today could save someone else hours of frustration tomorrow.

3. Easier Onboarding for New People 👥

If a conversation needs additional input — maybe Alice’s expertise or Bob’s feedback — pinging them into a public thread is much simpler than re-explaining everything. They can see the entire context of the conversation at a glance, allowing them to contribute more effectively. Public communication keeps the context intact.

4. Clarity Breeds Solutions 🧠

Framing your thoughts clearly can help you solve your own problem. Sometimes, while typing out the issue, you might find the solution on your own — maybe you’ll even delete the message before hitting “Send.” But if not, you’ve articulated the problem in a way others can help. Sometimes, just writing out the problem is halfway to the solution.

Public vs. Private Channels

Should you use public or private channels? 🤔

It’s common to have private channels for teams, and sometimes it’s the norm to communicate there. However, private channels can create silos and fragment the company culture. When possible, try to bring conversations to public spaces. This practice helps to reduce knowledge barriers and promotes inclusivity.

Of course, there are valid reasons to communicate privately: sensitive issues, personal matters, or just casual team bonding. Private channels are perfect for things that aren’t directly related to work but can help foster team culture and camaraderie.

A Note on Company Culture 🏢

I really hope you work in a company with a non-toxic culture, where everyone feels comfortable asking questions without fear of being shamed or ridiculed. Curiosity should be celebrated — every question is an opportunity to learn.

Give It a Try 😉

If you feel comfortable, try communicating publicly next time. It could make a big difference, not just for you but for everyone around you.