Connecting a Gmail account via SMTP creates a secure connection that Outreachly can use to send emails as part of your multi-channel outreach campaigns.
SMTP stands for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. It is the standard way an app like Outreachly sends emails through your Gmail account.
💡Tip: To save you time later, before you add a Gmail account via SMTP, we recommend following the steps in this article
Step-By-Step Guide:
Step 1: Open the Mailbox Connection Screen
Select "Mailboxes" from the left menu.
Select "Connect Mailbox".
Select "SMTP".
Step 2: Add your Gmail Address and App Password
Enter the Gmail email address you want to connect.
Enter your saved "App Password".
🚨 Important: Do not use your normal Gmail password. Gmail SMTP requires an App Password.
Step 3: Add Your SMTP Settings
Under SMTP, enter "smtp.gmail.com".
Select "TLS".
🎓 Note: TLS is a secure encryption method that protects your login and email activity.
Step 4: Add Your IMAP Settings
IMAP allows Outreachly to read mailbox folders and sync sent mail activity.
Under IMAP, enter "imap.gmail.com".
Select "SSL".
🎓 Note: SSL is a secure encryption method used for IMAP connections.
Step 5: Save and Confirm the Connection
Select "Save".
Review any tutorial steps shown on-screen.
Confirm the connection was successful by going back to "Mailboxes" and checking that:
Your mailbox appears in the list.
You can see the mailbox settings under "Mailboxes".
Adding Multiple Gmail Accounts
You can connect multiple Gmail accounts to Outreachly.
Go to "Mailboxes".
Select "Add Account".
Repeat the same SMTP setup steps for each additional Gmail account.
💡 Tip: You can add up to 5 email accounts per seat.
Best Practices
Name your Gmail App Password something clear, like “Outreachly SMTP,” so you can manage it later.
Connect one mailbox first and confirm sending works before adding the rest.
Use a dedicated sending inbox if you are running high-volume outbound.
Keep your App Password stored in a secure password manager.
🚨 Important: If you revoke your Gmail App Password in Google settings, you must generate a new one and update the mailbox in Outreachly.
FAQ
Q: What do I need before connecting Gmail via SMTP?
A: You need POP and IMAP enabled in Gmail and a Gmail "App Password" generated with 2-Step Verification enabled.
Q: Can I use my normal Gmail password for SMTP?
A: No, Gmail requires an "App Password" for SMTP connections, not your normal Gmail password.
Q: What should I enter for the SMTP server and security type?
A: Use "smtp.gmail.com" and select "TLS".
Q: What should I enter for the IMAP server and security type?
A: Use "imap.gmail.com" and select "SSL".
Q: How do I know the connection worked?
A: The connection is successful when your inbox appears under "Mailboxes," and you can see its settings listed there.
Q: How many Gmail accounts can I add?
A: You can add up to 5 email accounts per seat.
🚀 Success! Your Gmail account has been added via SMTP. Simply repeat the steps to add more accounts.