Getting started with LEAD.bot

Launch your first program

Start with a small group, give people a clear purpose, and review the first round before expanding.

Slack and Microsoft Teams

Start with one group

Choose a group and an owner
Start with one team or community. Choose someone who can explain the program and help people take part.
Tell people what to expect
Explain why you’re introducing people and what a useful conversation might look like. Adapt one of the announcement templates below.
Review the first round
Ask whether the introductions were useful and what could make the next round better. Expand when the program works for your group.

Slack

Introduce the program to your channel

Share the purpose, timing and participation details with your group before the first round.

Launch announcement template

Replace the bracketed details before posting it yourself. Select the text below and copy it; no message is sent from this page.

Example Slack announcement

We’re starting coffee chats in [channel name] to [purpose of the program]. LEAD.bot will introduce you to colleagues [frequency].

When your introduction arrives in Slack, say hello and find a time for coffee or a chat, virtually or in person.

The first round is [date]. To join or opt out, [your participation instructions]. Questions? Contact [program owner].

Microsoft Teams

Introduce the program to your team

Share the purpose, timing and participation details with your group before the first round.

Launch announcement template

Replace the bracketed details before posting it yourself. Select the text below and copy it; no message is sent from this page.

Example Microsoft Teams announcement

We’re starting coffee chats in [team name] to [purpose of the program]. LEAD.bot will introduce you to colleagues [frequency].

When your introduction arrives in Microsoft Teams, say hello and find a time for coffee or a chat, virtually or in person.

The first round is [date]. To join or opt out, [your participation instructions]. Questions? Contact [program owner].

Give your group something to talk about

Watercooler offers conversation prompts for a shared channel or team. Consider it when your group would benefit from an occasional topic to discuss together.