A welcome channel is one of the best ways to create a friendly first impression in your Discord server. It helps new members understand your rules, learn where to start, and feel encouraged to participate.
This step-by-step guide explains how to make a welcome channel in Discord, what to include, and tips to make it effective.
Why You Need a Welcome Channel in Discord
A welcome channel helps you:
- Greet new members automatically or manually
- Share server rules and guidelines
- Explain server roles and channels
- Reduce confusion for new users
- Build a positive and organized community
How to Make a Welcome Channel in Discord
Step 1: Create a New Text Channel
- Open Discord
- Select your server
- Click the + icon next to Text Channels
- Name the channel (common names include):
#welcome#start-here#introductions
- Click Create Channel
Step 2: Set Channel Permissions
To keep the welcome channel clean, you may want to restrict who can send messages.
- Right-click the welcome channel
- Select Edit Channel
- Go to Permissions
- Under @everyone:
- ✅ Allow View Channel
- ❌ Disable Send Messages
- Save changes
Admins or bots can still post updates.
Step 3: Write a Welcome Message
Pin a clear and friendly welcome message. Here’s an example:
👋 Welcome to [Server Name]!
We’re glad to have you here!
✅ Read the rules in #rules
✅ Choose your roles in #roles
✅ Introduce yourself in #introductionsEnjoy your stay and be respectful!
Pin the message so it stays visible.
Step 4: Add Server Rules & Guidelines
You can:
- Include rules directly in the welcome channel, or
- Link to a separate #rules channel
Keep rules short and easy to understand:
- Be respectful
- No spam or self-promotion
- Follow Discord’s Terms of Service
How to Set Up Automatic Welcome Messages
Option 1: Use Discord’s Built-in Welcome Screen
For Community servers:
- Go to Server Settings
- Select Community
- Click Enable Community (if not already enabled)
- Open Welcome Screen
- Add:
- A welcome message
- Recommended channels
- Helpful descriptions
Option 2: Use a Welcome Bot
Popular bots include:
- MEE6
- Dyno
- Carl-bot
General setup steps:
- Invite the bot to your server
- Open the bot’s dashboard
- Enable Welcome Messages
- Choose the welcome channel
- Customize the message
Bots can:
- Mention new members
- Assign roles automatically
- Send DMs instead of public messages
What to Include in a Discord Welcome Channel
A great welcome channel usually includes:
- Friendly greeting
- Server purpose
- Rules or rules link
- How to get roles
- Where to chat
- Support or help channel
Optional additions:
- Emojis for friendliness
- Server banner or GIF
- Server events or announcements
Best Practices for Discord Welcome Channels
- Keep messages short and clear
- Use bullet points and emojis
- Pin important messages
- Lock the channel to prevent spam
- Update content as your server grows
Final Thoughts
A well-designed welcome channel helps new members feel comfortable and informed from the moment they join. Whether you use a simple message or an automated bot, a clear and friendly welcome channel sets the tone for your Discord community.
