How to Set an Out of Office Reply in Gmail

Setting Up Out of Office in Gmail

Gmail calls the out of office feature a "vacation responder". Here is how to set it up.

Gmail on Desktop

Step 1: Open Settings

• Go to mail.google.com and sign in
• Click the Settings gear icon (top right)
• Click See all settings

Step 2: Find Vacation Responder

• Stay on the General tab
• Scroll down to find Vacation responder

Step 3: Configure Your Reply

• Select Vacation responder on
• Set your First day (start date)
• Optionally set a Last day (end date)
• Enter a Subject for your auto-reply
• Type your message in the text box

Step 4: Choose Recipients

• Only send a response to people in my Contacts - Check this if you only want contacts to receive your reply
• Leave unchecked to reply to everyone

Step 5: Save

Scroll to the bottom and click Save Changes.

Gmail Mobile App

Step 1: Open Settings

• Open the Gmail app
• Tap the menu icon (three lines)
• Scroll down and tap Settings
• Select your email account

Step 2: Enable Vacation Responder

• Tap Vacation responder
• Toggle it on
• Set your dates and message
• Tap Done

Tips for Good Vacation Responses

Keep it professional:

• State when you will return
• Provide an alternative contact for urgent matters
• Keep it brief

Example Message:

Thank you for your email. I am currently out of the office from [start date] to [end date].

For urgent matters, please contact [colleague name] at [email].

I will respond to your email when I return.

Need Help?

If you need assistance with Gmail settings, contact our helpdesk at helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.