Using Gmail and Google Sheets for Personalized Email Campaigns

Introduction

• Presenter: Jeff
• Topic: Using Gmail and Google Sheets to send personalized bulk emails.
• Objective: Learn a creative technique to stand out at work.
• Background Context: Originally used in a sales context covering over 200 clients per quarter.

Traditional Method and Limitations

• BCC Method:
  • Add your email in the "To" field and recipients in the BCC field.
  • Limitation: Generic and less personalized.

Mail Merge Method

• Developed by: Martin Hoxie via Google's script.
• Benefit: Allows for personalized bulk emails.

Steps to Utilize Mail Merge

1. Accessing the Tool:

   • Visit Google Workspace for Developers webpage.
   • Copy the sample mail merge spreadsheet.
   • Note: Mail merge refers to sending customized bulk emails.

2. Setting Up Spreadsheet:

   • Change column headers except "Recipient" and "Email Sent."
   • Input necessary information (e.g., first name, last name, email, industry, customer ID).

3. Drafting the Email in Gmail:

   • Use curly brackets {} for dynamic fields.
   • Draft email with placeholders for recipient-specific information (e.g., first name, industry).

4. Executing the Mail Merge:

   • Click "Mail Merge" in the sheet.
   • Authorize app access through Google account.
   • Ensure app safety via Google Developer website.
   • Copy subject line from Gmail draft to the mail merge tool.
   • Confirm emails were sent in the "Email Sent" column.

Examples of Use Cases

1. Sales Communication:

   • Customize emails for clients using fields like industry and customer ID.
   • Ensure personalization to prevent emails being marked as spam.

2. School Event Organization:

   • Collect classmates' data to organize events.
   • Use dynamic UID for event check-ins.

3. Professional Networking (e.g., Holiday Greetings):

   • Send personalized greetings to colleagues and superiors.
   • Include specific details such as team and years known.

Tips for Successful Mail Merges

• Highlight non-deletable columns to avoid accidental changes.
• Clear "Email Sent" column before rerunning scripts.
• Always test with your email first.
• Common mistakes include misusing curly brackets and incorrect header copy-pasting.

Conclusion

• Final Tips: Highlight essential columns, clear "Email Sent" for fresh runs, and test before sending.
• Call to Action: Like the video if helpful.
• Next Steps: Check out more creative work solutions in the "Think Outside the Box" playlist.