Sending bulk emails through Gmail can be challenging due to Google’s strict limits to prevent spam. However, sending bulk emails is often a must for businesses and organizations. So, how do you navigate these restrictions without getting your emails blocked?
Here is a complete guide to sending bulk emails via Gmail while respecting the rules and optimizing your sendings.
Using Gmail Features
Google Groups
One of the easiest ways to send mass emails is to use Google Groups. By creating a Google Group, you can add all your recipients to that group and send your email to a single group address. This helps you stay within Gmail’s sending limits while reaching many people.
Sending Limits
Gmail has strict limits on sending emails. For free users, the limit is around 500 emails per day, while for Google Workspace users, this limit is increased to 2,000 emails per day. Sticking to these limits is crucial to avoid getting your account temporarily blocked. Schedule your sending accordingly to stay within these limits.
Using bulk email-sending services
Free and paid services
For larger sends and advanced features, it is recommended to use specialized services like Mailchimp, Sendinblue (or Brevo) for free options or paid services like Mailjet, ActiveCampaign, and GetResponse. These platforms are designed to handle bulk sends and offer additional features such as email tracking and personalization.
Using browser extensions
GMass YAMM
Browser extensions like GMass or Yet Another Mail Merge (YAMM) can help you send bulk emails directly from Gmail. These tools integrate with Google Sheets, allowing you to personalize each email and track open and click-through rates. They’re handy for personalized marketing campaigns.
Essential tips to avoid getting blocked
Mailing list quality
Using an opt-in contact list is essential. This means that recipients have given their consent to receive your emails. This reduces the risk of blocking and increases recipient engagement and satisfaction.
Relevant content
Sending engaging and personalized emails is another key to avoiding being marked as spam. Use content that is relevant to your recipients and avoid spam trigger words like “free,” “money,” and “urgent.”
Email Authentication
Setting up SPF, DKIM, and DMARC to authenticate your emails helps prevent them from being considered spam. These settings increase the credibility of your domain and increase the chances of your emails arriving in your recipients’ primary inbox.
Respect the laws in force
In Europe, compliance with data protection and email marketing laws, such as GDPR, is crucial. Sending unsolicited emails is illegal in many countries and can result in heavy fines.
Maintaining a good sender reputation
To maintain a good sender reputation, follow these recommendations:
- Build your email list organically.
- Use Double Opt-in to obtain permission from the recipient.
- Don’t buy email lists.
- Avoid sending to incorrect, expired or inactive addresses.
- Update your email list regularly.
By following these best practices, you will increase the deliverability of your emails and avoid blockages.
Extensions like YAMM and Mailmeteor
YAMM and Mailmeteor are practical tools for sending bulk emails via Gmail. They allow easy personalization and accurate tracking of the emails’ performance. These extensions use Google Sheets to manage contact lists and personalize each email, which is ideal for targeted campaigns.
Email Sending Services
For more advanced needs, services like Mailchimp or ActiveCampaign offer complete solutions for email marketing. These platforms manage mass sending and provide detailed analytics, A/B testing, and automation to optimize campaigns.