For those working in a professional field, having a signature on their emails can improve personal branding and somewhat making them feel more trusted. A typical email signature may include name, position, company name, phone number, website, address, and sometimes their favorite quote.
Pretty much the general information about you can be fitted to a signature and this could help other people, especially business partner knows you better.
In Gmail, you can put a signature at the end of an email, either manually or automatically. But first, you must learn to create your own signature. Follow the steps below.
Table of Contents
#1 How to create a signature on Gmail desktop
For a lot of reasons, creating a signature in Gmail is easier and highly customizable than the mobile version. I recommend you using the Gmail desktop when sending emails with a signature included.
1. Launch Gmail on your computer.
2. Head to Settings > See all settings.
3. Under the ‘General’ tab, find the ‘Signature’ section and click Create new.
4. Give it a new, then click Create.
5. Here, you can create your own signature.
6. Under the ‘Signature defaults’ section, I prefer to leave it unchanged as I’m not going to include my signature on all of my emails. But feel free to choose what fits you the most.
7. Scroll down and click Save Changes.
8. Now, compose a new email just to see your signature.
9. Click the Insert Signature button and select the signature you want to include.
10. Signature has been added to the end of the email.
11. In case you wondering, the recipient will see exactly like you designed. Some email services may alter the signature look, but more or less, they roughly feel the same.
#2 How to create a signature on Gmail mobile
The signature feature on the Gmail app isn’t as sophisticated as the desktop version. It offers basic text without any customization. But if you are still interested, check out the guide below.
1. Launch Gmail app and open the hamburger menu.
2. Select Settings.
3. Tap on your Gmail address.
4. Tap on Mobile signature.
5. Create your signature here, then hit OK.
6. When composing an email on Gmail mobile, the signature will automatically included.
As mentioned above, Gmail mobile signature only offers the most basic editing and always included on a new email automatically. That being said, it’s recommended to stick with Gmail desktop when sending an email with a signature as can have a variety of configurations and styles.
Either way, I hope this guide helps you making your email look more professional. Thank you for reading.
Additional Tips for a Professional Email Signature
Make your signature stand out
To leave a lasting impression, consider incorporating these elements into your email signature:
- Clickable Social Media Icons: Add small, clean icons linking to your LinkedIn, Twitter, or other relevant platforms. This not only boosts your online presence but also gives recipients more ways to connect with you.
- Call-to-Action (CTA): Include a subtle yet effective CTA, such as “Schedule a Call” or “View My Portfolio,” linked to a relevant page. Tools like Calendly or personal websites work great here.
- Awards or Certifications: If applicable, add a brief mention of notable achievements or certifications. Keep it concise to maintain professionalism.
Optimize for mobile devices
Since many emails are read on mobile devices, ensure your signature is responsive. Stick to simple formatting, avoid large images, and test how it looks on different devices.
Use an online signature generator
For those who want a sleek design without the hassle of manual formatting, tools like WiseStamp or HubSpot’s Free Email Signature Generator can help create polished signatures quickly. These tools often allow you to include advanced features like banners or disclaimers.
Experiment with minimalism
A clutter-free signature often makes the best impression. Focus on essential details like your name, title, company, and one or two links. Avoid overloading with unnecessary information.
FAQ
How can I make my email signature more visually appealing?
To enhance the visual appeal of your signature, use consistent fonts and colors that align with your personal or company branding. Adding a professional headshot or logo can also make it more engaging.
Can I use different signatures for different purposes in Gmail?
Yes! Gmail allows you to create multiple signatures. You can assign specific signatures for new emails and replies under the “Signature defaults” section in Gmail settings.
Should I include my email address in my signature?
While it’s optional, including your email address can be helpful if your message is forwarded as plain text. It ensures recipients can easily contact you without needing to search.
What’s the best way to test my email signature?
Send test emails to yourself and view them on both desktop and mobile devices. This ensures your formatting remains consistent across platforms and email clients.
For more inspiration on creating professional email signatures, explore tools like WiseStamp or check out free templates from platforms like Zapier!
