# How to Search for Users and Groups

![](https://1800072591-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2Fcrc%2F-M9R1vvZ6albbktixhwz%2F-M9cL2dJHofQ8GMbytLN%2F29.png?generation=1591962258818013\&alt=media)

A search will find channels (including the ones you are part of) and users. You can not search inside private channels.

When you click on a search result, the following can happen:

* If the result is a channel, and you already aren’t part of it, you will join that channel;
* If the result is a user, you will start a direct message with that user;

You can search the user you want to talk or click on that user’s avatar and click on the **Conversation Button**.

* To search for channels and users, use the search bar under your account box. Alternatively, you can press Ctrl/Cmd + k to access the search bar quickly.

Just start typing and if it is available, the result will start to populate at the sidebar

![](https://1800072591-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2Fcrc%2F-M9R1vvZ6albbktixhwz%2F-M9cL2dK1XYvHcSfmyQ8%2F30.png?generation=1591962258813409\&alt=media)