Google Docs is an incredibly versatile tool that allows you to create, edit, and collaborate on documents right from your browser. But did you know you can also use Google Docs to send emails?
Why Send Emails from Google Docs
Here are some of the key benefits of using Google Docs to draft and send emails:
- Collaboration – Multiple people can edit the email draft at the same time, allowing for seamless collaboration. You can see who made each change with version history.
- Attachments – Easily attach documents from Google Drive or link to them in the email body. No need to download and reupload attachments.
- Save a copy – The sent email will save to your Google Docs history so you have a copy for your records.
- Use templates – Create email templates in Google Docs that allow you to quickly customize and send repetitive emails.
How to Draft an Email in Google Docs
Drafting an email in Google Docs is easy. Just follow these steps:
1. Open Google Docs
Go to Google Docs in your browser and open a new document or use an existing one.
2. Insert the Email Draft Building Block
Click Insert > Building Blocks > Email draft in the menu bar. An email template with fields will appear in your document.
3. Fill Out the Email Fields
In the template, fill out the recipient’s email in the To field. Add a subject line, CC or BCC people as needed.
4. Write Your Email
Below the subject line is where you write the content of your email. Use the formatting tools to style your email.
5. Add Attachments (Optional)
Click Insert > Drive to attach files from Google Drive or link to them in your email body.
6. Preview and Send
When ready, click the Gmail logo on the left to preview it. Make any last edits then send your email.
Collaborating on Email Drafts
One of the best features of using Google Docs for email is the ability to collaborate. Multiple people can provide feedback and edits on an email draft before sending.
Give Access
Share the Google Doc with collaborators by clicking Share and adding their email addresses.
Use Comments
Collaborators can leave comments in the document using the comment feature. Resolve any changes before sending.
Track Changes
Turn on Suggesting mode to see edits as people make changes. Accept or reject suggestions before sending.
Email Templates in Google Docs
Another great use case for sending emails via Google Docs is to create reusable email templates.
Here are some tips:
- Create a template doc for common email types like newsletters, outreach emails, etc.
- Use placeholders like {{Name}} and {{Company}} that can be easily swapped out.
- Save templates to a dedicated Google Drive folder to access later.
- Open a template, update the placeholders, customize the message, and send.
Google Docs Add-ons for Email
There are also some great email-specific Google Docs add-ons that can enhance your email workflow:
- Gmelius – Manage contacts, schedule sends, track opens and clicks all within Google Docs.
- Mail Merge – Merge Google Sheet data into customized email templates.
- WiseStamp – Add professional email signatures with images.
- Email Hunter – Find and validate email addresses.
Conclusion
Sending emails directly from Google Docs has many benefits over traditional email clients. You can collaborate with others, keep saved copies, use templates to save time, and more.
So next time you need to draft up an important email, open Google Docs and give this handy feature a try! Let us know how it goes in the comments.
