Salesforce Email Template Builder Tool Guide: 3 Essential Steps

Salesforce provides a robust resource known as the Lightning Email Template Builder, which enables users to craft and personalize email templates for a wide range of applications on the Salesforce platform. From designing simple text templates to developing intricate HTML templates, the Lightning Email Template Builder offers an intuitive interface equipped with advanced features.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of setting up and using Lightning Email Templates. From enabling template folder sharing and content builder to creating and customizing email templates, we’ll cover all the essential steps to help you make the most out of Salesforce’s Email Template Builder.

Key Takeaways:

• Salesforce’s Lightning Email Template Builder allows for the creation and customization of email templates within the Salesforce platform.
• The tool offers a user-friendly interface with advanced features like drag-and-drop components and merge fields for personalized content.
• Limitations of Lightning Email Templates include a restricted number of templates, file size limits for attachments and images, and character limits for template fields.
• There are two versions of email templates in Salesforce: Classic Email Templates and Lightning Email Templates, each with its own set of features and benefits.
• By leveraging the capabilities of Salesforce’s Email Template Builder, businesses can enhance their email marketing efforts and improve communication with customers and prospects.

Setting Up Lightning Email Templates

To get started with Lightning Email Templates, you’ll need to set up the necessary configurations for template folder sharing and content builder. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you enable these features:

Enabling Template Folder Sharing

1. Go to the Salesforce Setup menu by clicking on your user profile and selecting “Setup.”
2. In the left-hand navigation, search for “Email Templates” and select “Email Templates” under the “Platform Tools” section.
3. Click on “Folders” and then select “Email Template Folders.”
4. Switch on the folder and enhanced sharing options for email templates.

Enabling Content Builder

1. In the Salesforce Setup menu, search for “Permission Sets” and select “Permission Sets” under the “Administration” section.
2. Create a new permission set specifically for Lightning Email Templates.
3. Grant access to the drag-and-drop content builder within the permission set.

Once you have enabled template folder sharing and content builder, you are ready to start creating and customizing your Lightning Email Templates.

Now that you have set up the necessary configurations, let’s move on to the next section to learn how to create email templates using the Lightning Email Template Builder.

Creating Email Templates with Lightning Email Template Builder

With Lightning Email Template Builder, you have the power to create and fully customize email templates that align with your business needs. Let’s explore how you can leverage this powerful tool to create personalized and visually appealing email templates.

Creating a New Email Template

To create a new email template using Lightning Email Template Builder, follow these simple steps:

1. Open the Salesforce App Launcher and search for “Templates”.
2. Select the “Templates” option to access the Lightning Email Template Builder.
3. Click on the “New Template” button to start creating a new template.
4. Add the necessary metadata, such as the subject line and related object, to give your template context and relevance.
5. Once you’ve defined the template’s metadata, you can start designing its layout using the intuitive drag-and-drop components of the Lightning Email Builder.
6. Customize the style of your email by selecting fonts, colors, and other visual elements to match your brand identity.
7. Add merge fields to personalize the content of your email based on Salesforce record data.
8. Save the template, and it will be ready to use for your email campaigns.

Customizing Email Templates with Lightning Email Template Builder

Lightning Email Template Builder offers a wide range of customization options to tailor your email templates to perfection. Here’s what you can do:

“Lightning Email Template Builder provides a seamless experience for designing visually stunning email templates. With its drag-and-drop functionality, you can effortlessly add images, buttons, and other components to create engaging and interactive emails for your audience.”

By leveraging the features and functionality of Lightning Email Template Builder, you can create email templates that leave a lasting impression on your recipients. Personalize your emails, enhance their visual appeal, and capture the attention of your audience with ease.

Taking Your Email Templates to the Next Level

Once you’ve mastered the basics of creating and customizing email templates with Lightning Email Template Builder, you can explore its advanced features to further enhance your templates. These features include:

• Adding dynamic content using merge fields to personalize each email.
• Integrating images, buttons, and other components to create visually engaging templates.
• Implementing responsive design principles to ensure optimal display across different devices and screen sizes.

By incorporating these advanced techniques into your email template creation process, you can maximize the impact of your email campaigns and drive better results for your business. By leveraging personalization, dynamic content, and A/B testing, you can ensure that your messages resonate with your audience and encourage higher engagement rates. Additionally, addressing specific pain points, such as delays in hiring process emails, with clear and empathetic communication can help build trust and maintain transparency with candidates. This attention to detail not only enhances the recipient’s experience but also strengthens your brand’s credibility over time.

By leveraging the benefits of Lightning Email Template Builder, you can create and customize email templates that align with your brand, engage your audience, and drive your business forward.

Advanced Features of Lightning Email Template Builder

Take your email templates to the next level with the advanced features of the Lightning Email Template Builder. This powerful tool provides a range of capabilities that allow you to create visually stunning and personalized email templates for your Salesforce communication.

One key feature of the Lightning Email Template Builder is the ability to add various components to your templates. With the drag-and-drop functionality, you can easily incorporate buttons, images, and rich text into your emails. This allows you to create dynamic and engaging content that stands out in your recipients’ inboxes.

Another advanced feature is the use of merge fields. Merge fields allow you to personalize your email content based on data from Salesforce records. By incorporating merge fields into your templates, you can create customized messages that resonate with your audience and drive engagement.

Furthermore, the Lightning Email Template Builder makes it simple to include images in your email templates. By dragging and dropping the image component onto the canvas, you can seamlessly integrate visuals into your emails, enhancing the overall design and impact of your messages.

These advanced features of the Lightning Email Template Builder provide you with the tools you need to create professional and eye-catching email templates. Whether you’re looking to add interactive elements, personalize content, or include captivating visuals, this tool has you covered.

The image above showcases the power of incorporating images into your email templates. By strategically placing relevant and visually appealing images, you can create a more engaging and memorable email experience for your recipients.

Limitations of Lightning Email Templates

While Lightning Email Templates offer numerous benefits in creating and customizing email templates within the Salesforce platform, it’s important to be aware of their limitations. Understanding these limitations will help you design your email templates effectively and avoid any unexpected constraints.

1. Limited Number of Templates

One limitation of Lightning Email Templates is the limit on the number of templates you can create. Salesforce imposes a maximum limit which, once reached, will prevent you from creating additional templates. It’s essential to plan and organize your templates efficiently to make the most out of this limitation.

2. File Size Limits

When using Lightning Email Templates, keep in mind that there are file size limits for attachments and images. Each template has a maximum file size that should not be exceeded. Ensure that your attachments and images are optimized for size to stay within these limits and prevent any issues with template delivery.

3. Merge Field Limitations

Lightning Email Templates allow for the use of merge fields to personalize content based on Salesforce record data. However, there is a limit to the number of merge fields you can include per template. It’s crucial to choose and prioritize the most relevant merge fields for each template to work within this limitation.

4. Character Limits for Template Fields

Another limitation to consider when designing your email templates is the character limit for template fields. Each field, such as the subject line or email body, has a maximum number of characters that can be used. It’s important to be concise and thoughtful in crafting your message to fit within these character restrictions.

5. Formatting Restrictions

While Lightning Email Templates offer flexibility in customization, there are formatting restrictions to be aware of. Certain formatting options may not be available or may be limited within the platform. Understanding these limitations will help you create templates that align with your desired design and formatting preferences.

6. Cross-Object Merge Field Limitations

Lightning Email Templates have limitations when it comes to cross-object merge fields, which pull data from related objects. These limitations may restrict your ability to include certain merge fields if they are cross-object and not supported by the platform. It’s important to consider these limitations when designing templates that rely heavily on cross-object data.

By understanding the limitations of Lightning Email Templates, you can design and customize your templates effectively, optimizing their impact and avoiding potential issues. Keep these limitations in mind when creating your email templates to ensure a seamless and successful email marketing experience in Salesforce.

Salesforce Classic Email Templates vs. Lightning Email Templates

When it comes to email templates in Salesforce, there are two main versions to choose from: Classic Email Templates and Lightning Email Templates. Each version offers its own unique set of features and benefits, allowing users to create professional and engaging email communications. Let’s compare the two versions to help you make an informed decision.

Classic Email Templates

Classic Email Templates have been a staple in Salesforce for many years and offer a comprehensive range of features. These templates provide a wide variety of customization options, including the ability to create HTML templates with Classic Letterhead, custom HTML templates, and Visualforce templates. Classic Email Templates are organized in folders and can be accessed and edited from the Classic Email Templates page in Salesforce.

One of the key advantages of Classic Email Templates is their familiarity and established functionality. Users who are accustomed to the Classic interface may find it easier to navigate and utilize these templates effectively. Additionally, Classic Email Templates allow for detailed customization and integration with other Salesforce features.

However, it’s important to note that Classic Email Templates may require some HTML knowledge to create complex designs. The process of editing and updating these templates can sometimes be time-consuming and less intuitive compared to Lightning Email Templates.

Lightning Email Templates

Lightning Email Templates offer a modern and intuitive interface that simplifies the email template creation process. With the drag-and-drop functionality of Lightning Email Template Builder, users can easily customize the layout, add merge fields, and personalize the style of their emails. This visual editor makes it easy to design visually appealing and professional templates without the need for technical expertise.

Lightning Email Templates also provide enhanced customization options, allowing users to add buttons, images, and rich text components to their templates. The templates can be accessed and edited using the Lightning Email Template Builder, which offers a streamlined and user-friendly experience.

One notable advantage of Lightning Email Templates is their compatibility with the Lightning Experience interface. These templates are optimized for email campaigns in Salesforce Lightning Experience, providing a seamless user experience and enhanced email campaign management.

Comparison Table: Classic Email Templates vs. Lightning Email Templates

It’s important to carefully consider the features and benefits of each version before choosing the right email template for your needs. Whether you prefer the familiarity and customization options of Classic Email Templates or the modern and intuitive interface of Lightning Email Templates, Salesforce provides powerful tools to streamline your email communications and enhance your marketing efforts.

Salesforce Email Templates in Classic Interface

In the Salesforce Classic interface, you have the flexibility to create different types of email templates to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple text template or a more visually appealing HTML template, Salesforce Classic offers a range of options for customization.

Email Template Types

Let’s take a look at the various email template types available in Salesforce Classic:

1. Text Templates: These are basic email templates that consist of plain text content.
2. HTML Templates with Classic Letterhead: These templates allow you to design visually appealing emails using HTML formatting and include the classic letterhead for a standardized header and footer.
3. Custom HTML Templates: If you’re familiar with HTML coding, you can create custom email templates with advanced design options.
4. Visualforce Templates: Visualforce templates let you leverage the power of Salesforce’s Visualforce technology to create dynamic and interactive email templates.

Each template type offers its own set of customization options, allowing you to create email templates that align with your branding and messaging. Whether you prefer a simple text template or want to design a template with a high level of design flexibility and dynamic content, Salesforce Classic has you covered.

Customizing Classic Email Templates

To customize your email templates in Salesforce Classic, you can access and edit them from the Classic Email Templates page. This centralized page allows you to easily manage and organize your templates by organizing them into folders.

“The Classic Email Templates page provides a user-friendly interface for customizing your email templates. You can easily update the content, design, and formatting of your templates to ensure they align with your brand image and meet your specific communication needs.”

Comparison of Salesforce Classic Email Template Types

As you can see from the comparison table, each email template type offers different levels of design flexibility, dynamic content capabilities, and HTML formatting options. Depending on your specific requirements, you can choose the template type that best suits your needs.

Next, we will explore the email templates available in Salesforce Lightning Experience and the enhanced customization options they offer.

Salesforce Email Templates in Lightning Experience

Salesforce Lightning Experience introduces enhanced email templates that offer advanced customization options and dynamic content. These templates use an enhanced letterhead for standardized headers and footers and provide options for rich text, merge fields, links, fonts, colors, and styles. Lightning Experience email templates are created and edited using the Lightning Email Template Builder, which offers a drag-and-drop interface and an enhanced folders and sharing option. These templates are designed for optimized email campaigns in the Lightning Experience interface.

With Salesforce Email Templates in Lightning Experience, you can create and customize email templates that align with your brand and messaging. Whether you’re designing simple text-based emails or complex HTML templates with rich media, the Lightning Email Template Builder offers a user-friendly interface that empowers you to create engaging and impactful email campaigns.

Next, let’s explore the process of creating custom email templates in Salesforce Lightning and discover how to overcome limitations for a seamless email marketing experience.

Creating Custom Email Templates in Salesforce Lightning

In Salesforce Lightning, you can take advantage of the Lightning Email Template Builder to create custom email templates that are tailored to your specific needs. This powerful tool gives you the flexibility to design templates that align with your branding and messaging, ensuring a cohesive and professional look for your email communications.

Design Flexibility and Brand Alignment

With the Lightning Email Template Builder, you have full control over the design of your email templates. You can customize various components such as images, buttons, and text to create a unique and visually appealing template. This allows you to maintain brand consistency and present a professional image to your recipients.

“Creating custom email templates in Salesforce Lightning has been a game-changer for our marketing team. We can now create visually stunning emails that perfectly reflect our brand’s identity.”

– Jane Smith, Marketing Manager at ABC Company

Personalization with Merge Fields

Custom email templates can be further enhanced by incorporating merge fields, which allow you to dynamically populate the content of your emails based on the recipient’s information. This personalization adds a touch of individualization to your communications and helps you create meaningful connections with your audience.

Dynamic Content for Targeted Communications

The Lightning Email Template Builder also enables you to include dynamic content in your email templates. By utilizing merge fields and conditional statements, you can tailor the content of your emails to specific segments of your audience. This allows you to deliver targeted messages and increase engagement with your recipients.

Stand Out with Unique Designs

By creating custom email templates in Salesforce Lightning, you have the opportunity to stand out from the crowd. Instead of relying on generic templates, you can unleash your creativity and build email designs that truly capture the attention of your recipients. Whether it’s a promotional email, a newsletter, or a follow-up message, you can make a lasting impression with your custom email templates.

Pros and Cons of Custom Email Templates in Salesforce Lightning

Custom email templates in Salesforce Lightning offer a wealth of possibilities for crafting impactful email communications. From design flexibility to personalized content, these templates empower you to create engaging and attention-grabbing emails. So why settle for generic templates when you can create custom designs that truly reflect your brand and captivate your audience?

Email Template Limitations and Workarounds in Salesforce Lightning

While Lightning Email Templates offer a wide range of features and customization options, it’s important to be aware of their limitations to ensure a smooth email template creation process. Here are some of the limitations you may encounter:

1. Lack of Classic template functionality: Lightning Email Builder does not provide certain features available in Classic templates, such as the ability to send test emails, verify merge fields, or include record type names and details links. This can make it challenging to test and validate your templates before sending them out.
2. File size limits: Lightning Email Templates have file size restrictions for attachments and images. If your template includes large files, you may need to compress or optimize them to meet these limitations.
3. Number of merge fields: There is a limit to the number of merge fields you can use per template in Lightning Email Builder. If you require multiple merge fields, you may need to find alternative solutions or workarounds.
4. Formatting restrictions: Lightning Email Templates have certain formatting restrictions, such as limited font styles and size options. This can impact the visual appearance of your email templates.

Despite these limitations, there are workarounds that can help you overcome these challenges and make the most out of your Lightning Email Templates:

1. Formula fields for record type names: Since Lightning Email Builder doesn’t support including record type names directly, you can create formula fields in Salesforce to display the record type name and include it in your email templates.
2. Manual insertion of links: If you need to include details links in your templates, you can manually insert the appropriate URLs in the email body. While this workaround requires a bit of manual effort, it ensures that your recipients have access to the relevant information.

By understanding the limitations and leveraging these workarounds, you can optimize your experience with Lightning Email Templates and create effective and engaging email communications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Salesforce Email Template Builder, particularly Lightning Email Templates, is an invaluable tool for creating and customizing email templates within the Salesforce platform. Whether you’re looking to design simple text templates or complex HTML templates, the Lightning Email Template Builder offers a user-friendly interface with advanced features that cater to your needs.

By following the steps provided in this guide and understanding the limitations and workarounds, you can create impactful and personalized email templates for your business. The Lightning Email Template Builder empowers you to streamline your email marketing efforts and enhance your communication with customers and leads.

Unlock the full potential of the Salesforce Email Template Builder to create visually appealing templates with rich content and dynamic elements. Experience the efficiency and effectiveness that comes with professionally crafted email templates, helping you engage with your audience and drive positive outcomes for your business.

Erik

Erik – Email, SEO, AI Expert Writer Erik is the strategist, the thinker, and the visionary. His role at Influenctor is pivotal in integrating SEO with AI-driven content strategies. With an extensive background in email marketing and a profound understanding of search engine algorithms, Erik develops innovative strategies that elevate our client’s online presence. His work ensures that our content is seen, felt, and remembered.