Forwarding an email as an attachment in Outlook is a handy feature that allows you to send an email to someone else while preserving the original message’s format and header information. This can be particularly useful when you need to share an email with someone for reference or when you want to include all the details of a previous email conversation in one single message.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Forward an Email as an Attachment in Outlook
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re trying to achieve here. Forwarding an email as an attachment will create a new email with the original message attached to it. This means that the recipient will receive two things – your message and the original email as an attachment.
Step 1: Open the email you want to forward as an attachment
The first thing you need to do is open the email that you want to forward.
Once you’ve found the email, double-click to open it in a new window. This will make it easier to manage and attach it to a new email.
Step 2: Click on the “More” option in the toolbar
In the open email window, you’ll find a toolbar with several options. Click on the “More” option which is usually represented by three dots or an arrow icon.
By clicking on the “More” option, a dropdown menu will appear with additional actions you can take with the email.
Step 3: Select “Forward as Attachment”
From the dropdown menu, select the option labeled “Forward as Attachment.”
Choosing this option will open a new email message with the original email attached as a .msg file.
Step 4: Add the recipient’s email address
In the new email window, enter the email address of the person you want to send the attached email to.
It’s important to double-check the recipient’s email address to ensure that your message is sent to the right person.
Step 5: Write your message and send
Finally, you can add your personal message or context for forwarding the email in the body of the new message. When you’re ready, click “Send.”
Once you hit send, the recipient will receive your message along with the original email attached. They can then open the attachment to view the email you forwarded.
After completing these steps, the recipient will receive a new email with your message and the original email attached as a .msg file. They can open the attachment to view the full content of the email you forwarded.
Tips: Forwarding an Email as an Attachment in Outlook
- Always add a note or context when forwarding an email as an attachment, so the recipient understands why you’re sending it.
- Double-check the recipient’s email address to ensure your message doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.
- Be aware that forwarding sensitive or confidential information may require additional security measures, such as encryption.
- If you’re forwarding an email thread, inform the original sender or any other parties involved, especially if the conversation was private.
- Remember that some email servers may have size limitations for attachments, so be mindful of the original email’s size before forwarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I forward an email as an attachment instead of just forwarding the email?
Forwarding an email as an attachment keeps the original format and header information intact, which can be important for record-keeping or when sharing detailed email conversations.
Can I forward multiple emails as attachments in a single message?
Yes, you can select multiple emails and forward them as attachments in one message. This can be done by holding down the Ctrl key (Cmd key on Mac) and selecting the emails you want to forward.
Will the recipient be able to see the entire email conversation in the attachment?
Yes, if the email you’re forwarding as an attachment includes a conversation thread, the recipient will see the entire conversation when they open the attachment.
Can I add additional attachments to the email I’m forwarding?
Yes, you can add other files or documents as attachments along with the forwarded email attachment.
What happens if the recipient doesn’t use Outlook?
The recipient can still open and view the .msg attachment using other email clients that support this file format, or through an online viewer.
Summary
- Open the email you want to forward as an attachment.
- Click on the “More” option in the toolbar.
- Select “Forward as Attachment.”
- Add the recipient’s email address.
- Write your message and send.
Conclusion
Mastering how to forward an email as an attachment in Outlook is a valuable skill in the professional world. It allows for seamless communication, ensures that important details are not lost in translation, and provides a record of the original conversation. It’s a simple process that can make a world of difference in how you share information with colleagues, clients, or friends. Remember that the clarity of your communication can greatly impact your relationships and workflow. So, next time you find yourself needing to pass on an email conversation, don’t just forward it—attach it!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.