How to set automatic reply in outlook

Last Updated: Mar 10, 2024 by

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s important to stay connected and responsive to your clients and colleagues. However, there are times when you may be away from your computer or unable to respond to emails immediately. In these situations, setting up an automatic reply in Outlook can be a lifesaver. In this article, we will discuss how to set up an automatic reply in Outlook, whether you are using the desktop application or the Outlook app.

Setting up an automatic reply in Outlook desktop application

  1. Open Outlook and click on the “File” tab in the top left corner.
  2. In the “Info” section, click on “Automatic Replies (Out of Office).”
  3. In the pop-up window, click on the “Send automatic replies” box.
  4. You can then choose to set a specific time period for your automatic reply or leave it on indefinitely.
  5. Type in your desired message in the “Inside My Organization” and “Outside My Organization” sections.
  6. If you want to send different messages to people inside and outside of your organization, make sure to check the corresponding boxes.
  7. Click “OK” to save your changes.

Setting up an automatic reply in Outlook app

  1. Open the Outlook app on your mobile device.
  2. Tap on the three horizontal lines in the top left corner to open the menu.
  3. Scroll down and tap on “Settings.”
  4. Tap on your email account.
  5. Under “Mail,” tap on “Automatic Replies.”
  6. Toggle the switch to turn on automatic replies.
  7. Type in your desired message in the “Inside My Organization” and “Outside My Organization” sections.
  8. If you want to send different messages to people inside and outside of your organization, make sure to toggle the switch for each option.
  9. Tap on the checkmark in the top right corner to save your changes.

Tips for setting up an effective automatic reply

  • Keep your message short and to the point.
  • Include the dates you will be away and when you will return.
  • If possible, provide an alternative contact for urgent matters.
  • Consider using a humorous or creative message to make your automatic reply stand out.

Things to keep in mind

  • Make sure to turn off your automatic reply when you return to work.
  • Check your automatic reply periodically to ensure it is still active and contains the correct information.
  • If you have multiple email accounts, make sure to set up an automatic reply for each one.

Conclusion

Setting up an automatic reply in Outlook can save you time and ensure that your contacts are aware of your absence. Whether you are using the desktop application or the Outlook app, the process is simple and can be done in just a few steps. By following these tips and keeping a few things in mind, you can set up an effective automatic reply that will keep your contacts informed and help you stay connected even when you are away.

Gulrukh Ch

About the Author: Gulrukh Ch

Gulrukh Chaudhary, an accomplished digital marketer and technology writer with a passion for exploring the frontiers of innovation. Armed with a Master's degree in Information Technology, Gulrukh seamlessly blends her technical prowess with her creative flair, resulting in captivating insights into the world of emerging technologies. Discover more about her on her LinkedIn profile.