Skip to main content

Using OpenAssistant on Slack

How to run tasks and work with your assistant on Slack

If you still need to install OpenAssistant in your Slack workspace, follow the installation guide here.

If OpenAssistant is already installed, this guide explains how to schedule meetings, initiate tasks, and get status updates using your assistant.

Where OpenAssistant Works

OpenAssistant is available in:

  • Direct messages (1:1 with OpenAssistant)

  • Private group messages

  • Public or private Slack channels (when added)

  • OpenAssistant will not work in Slack Connect channels connected to members of external Workspaces

➕ Adding OpenAssistant to a Channel

To use OpenAssistant in a channel:

  • Add @OpenAssistant to the channel like any other member

  • Once added, OpenAssistant can help coordinate meetings within that space

You can add OpenAssistant to:

  • Team channels (e.g., recruiting, sales)

  • Private group channels

  • Dedicated scheduling channels

How OpenAssistant Listens

OpenAssistant only responds when explicitly invoked.

  • Tag @OpenAssistant to trigger it

  • In a new message → OpenAssistant only sees that message

  • In a thread → OpenAssistant can see prior messages in that thread for context

👉 OpenAssistant does not read or monitor all messages in a channel unless you add it to the channel with a specific request.

Scheduling Internal Meetings

If participants are OpenAssistant users, scheduling is automatic.

OpenAssistant:

  • Checks availability across calendars

  • Applies preferences and buffers

  • Automatically finds the best time

You can:

  • Tag specific people: @Alex @Taylor

  • Use @channel for group coordination

OpenAssistant will confirm once the meeting is scheduled.

Finding Availability

Not ready to book yet?

Ask OpenAssistant to:

  • Show overlapping availability

  • Compare schedules across time zones

  • Suggest meeting windows

Using Skej in DMs

You can message OpenAssistant directly for any scheduling or task request.

To start a DM:

  1. Open Slack sidebar

  2. Go to Apps

  3. Click OpenAssistant



    Example Commands:

    Schedule a meeting
    ​“Schedule a meeting with Sarah next week.”
    ​

    → OpenAssistant will confirm which contact you want to schedule with and email them on your behalf.

    Meeting prep
    ​“Prep me for my 3pm meeting with info on attendees and context”
    ​

    → OpenAssistant will research attendees and search for relevant context in meeting notes, emails, etc.
    ​
    ​Check your calendar
    ​“What’s on my schedule today?”
    ​

    → OpenAssistant will return you back with your schedule


    ​Reminders
    ​
    → In preferences you can set OpenAssistant to send you event reminders 

    Status updates

    “Can you give me the latest updates on the Marketing project in Asana?”
    ​

    → Give requests related to your connected integrations.
    ​

    Add to calendar
    ​

    → Send OpenAssistant any screenshot, photo, or just text existing event details and Skej will automatically add the event on your calendar.
    ​


💡 Key Notes

  • OpenAssistant only operates where it is added or messaged

  • It does not access messages unless invoked

  • Scheduling with external participants is handled via email

Related Articles
Did this answer your question?