What does “Sliding into DMs” mean in the context of social media?

Sliding into DMs is a casual phrase used to describe the act of directly messaging someone on social media, usually in a smooth, confident, or flirtatious way. The term originally gained popularity through dating and meme culture but is now widely used in networking, brand outreach, and friendly conversations.

It typically refers to making a move—from expressing interest in someone to starting a private conversation after interacting publicly via likes or comments.

Example

He liked three of my selfies and then slid into my DMs with a ‘hey 😏.’ Classic.

What are ways to use “Sliding into DMs” on social media?

You can reference sliding into DMs when telling stories, making memes, or joking about bold communication strategies. It’s often used humorously to talk about making the first move, pitching a collaboration, or shooting your shot with a crush or potential brand partner.

It’s also common in influencer culture, where brands “slide into DMs” to reach out privately for partnerships.

Pro Tip

Whether it’s for flirting or professional reasons, make your DM feel personal and relevant—avoid generic openers to increase the chance of a response.

Related Terms

DM (Direct Message), Shoot Your Shot, Networking, Private Message, Outreach