Google Workspace: Getting Started with Google Chat

Google Chat allows you to send messages to individuals or groups, share files, and collaborate with coworkers. Google Chat is available through Gmail or directly through the Google Chat website.

Access Google Chat in Gmail

Open Gmail.
Look for Chat in the left-hand menu.
Select a conversation to open it or select New chat to start a new conversation.
Enter the name or email address of the person you want to message.

If Chat does not appear in Gmail:

Select the Settings gear in the upper-right corner.
Select See all settings.
Select Chat and Meet.
Next to Chat, select Google Chat.
Select Save Changes.

Access Google Chat From a Browser

You can also use Google Chat without opening Gmail.

Go to:

https://chat.google.com/

Start a Chat

Select New chat.
Enter the name or email address of the person you want to contact.
Select the person from the results.
Type your message and select Send.

You can also create a group conversation by adding multiple people.

Use Spaces

Google Chat Spaces provide a shared location where groups can communicate, share files, and collaborate on a project or topic.

To create a Space:

Open Google Chat.
Select New chat.
Select Create a space.
Enter a name for the Space.
Add the people you want to include.
Select Create.

Manage Google Chat Notifications

You can control notifications for individual conversations and Spaces.

Open the conversation or Space.
Select the conversation or Space name at the top.
Select Notifications.
Choose the notification setting you prefer.

Additional Resources

For additional information and instructions, visit the Google Chat Help Center:

https://support.google.com/chat/

Need Help?

If you continue to have trouble, please contact the Help Desk at 828-694-1895 or helpdesk@blueridge.edu.