How to Schedule Out-of-Office Replies in Microsoft Teams
Scheduling out-of-office replies in Microsoft Teams automatically sends a custom message to anyone who contacts you when you’re unavailable.
This feature lets your colleagues know you’re away and won’t be able to respond right away. It also conveniently updates your presence status to ‘Away,’ so people can see at a glance if you’re reachable.
Microsoft Teams out-of-office messages link to your Outlook calendar, marking you as busy for the time you set. You can schedule these replies for up to 90 days in advance.
Set your out-of-office replies by clicking your profile picture, selecting “Set status message,” then “Schedule out of office.” Enter your message, dates, and save. This automatically syncs with your Outlook calendar.
How to schedule out of office in Teams
You can manage your status through the desktop app or mobile app. Both methods sync with your Microsoft 365 account.
Method 1Using the Settings Menu
It’s a straightforward way to inform people about your absence and when you plan to return. Follow these steps within Teams:
2. Click the ‘Settings and more (…) ‘ icon next to your profile picture.
3. Select ‘Settings,’ then navigate to the ‘General’ tab.
4. Locate the ‘Out of Office’ section and click ‘Schedule.’
5. Toggle the ‘Turn on automatic replies’ switch to ‘On.’
6. Type your message, set your start and end times, and click ‘Save.’
Method 2Using your Profile Picture
- Click your Profile Picture in the top right corner of Teams.
- Select Set status message.
- Click Schedule out of office at the bottom of the window.
- Configure your dates and message, then click Save.
Status Message vs. Out of Office Status
It’s helpful to understand the distinction between a status message and an out-of-office reply in Teams for managing your availability.
Summary
Scheduling your out-of-office status in Teams is an effective way to let everyone know when you’re unavailable, and it syncs with Outlook.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!