# Communication Channels

This article goes through the different communication channel options in Communication Settings. Emails. Text. SMS. Teams. Slack.

Written by Marisa Crowder  
April 24, 2026

## What are the available communication channels?

Nectar supports the following channels:

- **Email**
- **Microsoft Teams**
- **Slack**
- **SMS/Text Message - US only**
- **Nectar Recognition (in-platform & push notification)**

Each channel includes its own settings and customization options.

## How does the Email channel work?

When sending via **Email**, you can configure:

- **Subject line** (optional)
- **Preview text** (optional)
- **From name** (sender name displayed)
- **From email**
- **Reply-to email**

**Note:** Your sending domain must be verified in Settings. If not, emails will be sent from [comms@nectarhr.com](mailto:comms@nectarhr.com)

## How does Microsoft Teams work?

You can send communications directly through Microsoft Teams in two ways:

- **Direct Message to users**
- **Post to channels**

Additional options include:

- **Custom message**
- **Teams message preview**

**Note:** The Nectar Bot must be added to your Teams channels to post messages there.

## How does Slack work?

Slack messaging works similarly to Teams.

You can:

- Send **Direct Messages** to users via the Nectar app (under Apps in Slack)
- **Post to channels**

Additional options:

- **Custom message**
- **Slack message preview**

**Note:** The slack integration must be installed for this option.

## How does SMS/Text messaging work?

You can send communications via text message.

- Add a **custom message**
- View a **text preview** before sending

**❗ Note:** SMS messaging is currently only available in the **United States**.

## Nectar Recognition

Nectar Recognition allows you to display communications directly within the Nectar platform.

### What is the Communications Page option?

- Displays the communication within the **[Communications page](https://help.nectarhr.com/en/articles/10280925-communications-hub)** in Nectar.
- Visible to selected recipients.

You can create/select **Communication Categories** (optional) which will allow you to select categories to filter this communication by on the Communications page for your users.

🌟 Categories can also be added and managed later on the Communications page in Recognition

### What is the Announcement Banner?

The **Announcement Banner** displays your communication prominently on the Home Feed.

You can customize:

- **Announcement title**
- **Description**
- **Image** (PNG recommended)

Image options:

- Upload a custom image
- Select a default image
- Remove the image entirely

If no image is selected, a default communication image will display.

Additional settings:

- **Keep in banner until** (set expiration date/time)
- **Preview** before publishing

**Tip:** Images used in communication channels may also appear as banners in the Recognition feed for better visibility.

**Troubleshooting:**

If your image does not appear:

- Confirm the image is selected for the banner
- Verify recipient settings are correctly configured

Once published:

- The banner appears at the top of the Home Feed
- Users can click to expand the message
- Users can react with emojis

### What are Push Notifications?

You can enable **Push Notifications** to alert users via the Nectar mobile app when a communication is published.

**Note:** Push notifications are only available for companies using Nectar’s **Rewards & Recognition** product.

## How do I choose the right channel?

You can select one or multiple channels depending on your communication goals:

- Use **Email** for detailed messaging
- Use **Teams or Slack** for quick, collaborative updates
- Use **SMS** for urgent notifications
- Use **Recognition** for visibility within Nectar

Combining channels helps ensure your message reaches your audience wherever they are.