How does mail merge work if you don't have outlook

Mail merge is a feature that allows you to send personalized emails to a large number of recipients using a template and a list of names and addresses. While Outlook is a popular email client that supports mail merge, you can still use mail merge without Outlook. Here are a few ways to do it:

  1. Microsoft Word: You can use Microsoft Word to create a mail merge document and then export it to a CSV file, which can be used to send emails using other email clients or services. To do this, follow these steps:
    • Create a new Word document and insert a mail merge field (e.g., First Name, Last Name, Email Address, etc.).
    • Create a list of names and addresses in a separate document or spreadsheet.
    • Use the "Mailings" tab in Word to merge the list with the document.
    • Export the merged document to a CSV file.
    • Use a CSV-to-email service like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, or Sendinblue to send the emails.
  2. Google Sheets: You can use Google Sheets to create a mail merge template and then export it to a CSV file, which can be used to send emails using other email clients or services. To do this, follow these steps:
    • Create a new Google Sheet with columns for the recipient's name, email address, and any other relevant information.
    • Create a mail merge template using Google Sheets' built-in template feature.
    • Use the "Tools" menu to export the sheet to a CSV file.
    • Use a CSV-to-email service like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, or Sendinblue to send the emails.
  3. Online Mail Merge Tools: There are several online mail merge tools that don't require Outlook or any other email client. Some popular options include:
    • Mailchimp: A popular email marketing service that offers a free plan and supports mail merge.
    • Constant Contact: An email marketing service that offers a free trial and supports mail merge.
    • Sendinblue: An email marketing service that offers a free plan and supports mail merge.
    • Mailmerge.io: A free online mail merge tool that allows you to create and send personalized emails without any email client.
  4. Python or Other Programming Languages: If you're comfortable with programming, you can use Python or other languages to create a mail merge script that sends personalized emails using a CSV file. There are several libraries and frameworks available that make it easy to send emails programmatically.

In summary, while Outlook is a popular email client that supports mail merge, you can still use mail merge without Outlook by using Microsoft Word, Google Sheets, online mail merge tools, or programming languages like Python.