> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.rocketpunch.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Message Professionals and Teams on Rocketpunch Inbox

> Use Rocketpunch Inbox to send direct messages, join open chat rooms, and connect with professionals and companies in the tech community.

Rocketpunch Inbox gives you a direct line to the people and companies in the tech community — from one-on-one conversations with recruiters and professionals to open chat rooms where broader discussions take place. Whether you're following up after an event or reaching out to a company you admire, messaging lets you build relationships beyond the job listing.

## Direct Messages

Direct messages are private, one-on-one conversations between you and another Rocketpunch user. Use them to introduce yourself to a recruiter, ask a professional for advice, or continue a conversation you started at an event.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open your Inbox">
    Click the chat icon in the top navigation bar from any page on Rocketpunch, or go directly to [rocketpunch.com/en/inbox](https://www.rocketpunch.com/en/inbox). Your Inbox opens to the **My Chats** section.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select an existing conversation or start a new one">
    If you've already been in contact with someone, select their name from your conversation list to pick up where you left off. To reach someone new, click the **New Message** button.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Find the person you want to message">
    In the new message dialog, search for the user by name or company. Select them from the results to open a new conversation thread.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Write and send your message">
    Type your message in the text field and press **Send**. The recipient will receive a notification and can reply at any time.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Open Chat Rooms

Open chat rooms are community spaces that any Rocketpunch user can join and participate in. Unlike direct messages, open chats are not private — they're shared conversations organized around topics, industries, or interests.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Join a Chat Room" icon="door-open">
    Browse available open chat rooms from the **Hub** tab in your Inbox and join any room that aligns with your professional interests or goals.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Participate in Discussions" icon="message">
    Ask questions, share insights, and engage with professionals across the tech community in real time — no invitation needed.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

Open chat rooms are a great way to get visibility in the community, learn from others in your field, and organically build your network without the pressure of a cold outreach message.

## Messaging Etiquette

Rocketpunch is a professional community, so keeping your messages respectful and relevant helps you make a stronger impression and get better responses.

**Introduce yourself clearly**

Start new conversations with a brief introduction — who you are, what you do, and why you're reaching out. A clear opener shows respect for the other person's time and makes it easier for them to respond helpfully.

**Be specific and purposeful**

Whether you're asking for a referral, seeking career advice, or exploring a job opportunity, state your purpose early in the message. Vague or overly casual messages are less likely to receive a reply.

**Keep it professional**

Use complete sentences, check your grammar, and avoid slang. Even in a chat environment, professional tone signals that you take the interaction seriously.

**Respect response times**

If someone doesn't reply right away, give them a few days before following up — once. Sending multiple follow-up messages in quick succession can come across as pushy.

<Note>
  You must be logged in to send or receive messages on Rocketpunch. Log in at [rocketpunch.com/en/login](https://www.rocketpunch.com/en/login). If you don't have an account, you can sign up for free on the same page.
</Note>

<Tip>
  After attending a Rocketpunch event, send a direct message to the people you connected with while the conversation is still fresh. Mention the event by name to jog their memory and give your outreach immediate context.
</Tip>