How to create, update and use email templates in Gmail

If you use Gmail for work, chances are you send similar emails on repeat—whether it's following up on unanswered messages, sharing product information, or distributing documentation. Gmail's email templates can save you valuable time and ensure consistency in your messaging.
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Templates are especially helpful for tasks like:

• Answering to customer support tickets
• Providing product information
• Following up on emails
• Sharing documentation
• Scheduling meetings
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In this guide, I’ll walk you through enabling, creating, and managing email templates in Gmail and show you how to take it to the next level by combining them with Notion via Slap, a tool that integrates Gmail and Notion seamlessly.

How to enable email templates in Gmail

Email templates aren’t enabled by default in Gmail, so the first step is to turn them on:

1. Open Gmail and click the gear icon in the top right corner.
2. Select "See all settings".
3. Navigate to the "Advanced"  tab.
4. Locate "Templates" and click Enable.
5. Scroll down and click "Save Changes".

How to create your first email template

Once templates are enabled, creating your first one is easy:

1. Open a new email by clicking Compose.
2. Write the email content you want to save as a template.
3. Click the three dots (⋮) in the bottom-right corner of the compose window.
4. Select "Templates" → "Save draft as template" → "Save as new template".
5. Give your template a clear, descriptive name.

How to use saved email templates

Using a template in Gmail takes just a few clicks:

1. Open a new email by clicking Compose.
2. Click the three dots (⋮) in the compose window.
3. Select "Templates" → Choose your desired template.
4. Customize the email with details specific to your recipient before sending.

How to update or delete email Templates

Update a template

1. Start a new email and load the template you want to update.
2. Edit the email content as needed.
3. Click the three dots (⋮) → "Templates" → "Save draft as template" → "Overwrite Template".
4. Choose the template you want to overwrite.

Delete a template

1. Click the three dots (⋮) → "Templates" → "Delete Template".
2. Select the template you want to remove.

Best practices for Gmail templates

Here are some tips to make the most of email templates:

• Use clear names: Create a consistent naming convention to find templates quickly.
• Incorporate branding: Add consistent formatting or signatures to reinforce your brand.
• Regularly review and update: Ensure templates stay relevant and accurate.
• Test templates: Send a test email to yourself before using templates for broader communication.

Combine Gmail templates with Notion

Gmail templates alone are a great productivity boost, but combining them with Notion can take your workflow to the next level. With Slap, you can connect Gmail to your Notion workspace, making it easy to track conversations, manage tasks, and even automate workflows.
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Here’s what you can do with Gmail + Notion:

• Track ongoing conversations and set reminders for follow-ups.
• Add notes and comments on email threads.
• Categorize and analyze emails using Notion databases.
• Monitor metrics like email response times or client engagement.

Conclusion

Gmail templates are an underrated feature that can save you time and ensure professional, consistent communication. By enabling and optimizing templates, and integrating Gmail with Notion using Slap, you can streamline your workflow and supercharge productivity.
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Ready to save time and stay on top of your emails? Give templates a try and discover how Slap can help you take your email game to the next level!
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Thank you for reading! If you have any questions or feedback, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at laura@getslap.co.

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