Create a Microsoft 365 Group in Outlook for Windows

Step-by-step instructions for creating a new Microsoft 365 Group in Outlook for Windows, including setting the group name, email address, privacy level, and adding initial members.

Questions

• How do I create a Microsoft 365 Group in Outlook?
• How do I create a new email group in Outlook for Windows?
• How do I set up a shared inbox or collaboration group in Outlook?
• Can I create a Microsoft 365 Group without contacting IT?
• How do I make a group private vs. public in Outlook?
• How do I add members when creating a new group in Outlook?

Environment

This article applies to current Bowdoin faculty and staff who want to create a Microsoft 365 Group in Outlook for Windows. Any Bowdoin Microsoft 365 user can create a group — no IT request is needed.

• Platform: Outlook for Windows (new Outlook, Microsoft 365)
• Not covered: Creating a Distribution Group — those require an IT request through the Service Catalog. See Microsoft 365 Groups and Distribution Groups — what's the difference? in the Related Articles section for guidance on which type to use.

Resolution

Create a new Microsoft 365 Group

There are two ways to start the group creation flow in Outlook for Windows:

Option 1: In the left navigation bar, select Groups. In the folder list that opens, select Go to Groups. Then click New Group in the ribbon.

Option 2: Click New Group directly in the Home tab ribbon and choose New Group from the drop-down menu.

Either option opens the Create Group window. Complete the following steps:

1. Enter a Name for the group. Choose a descriptive name so members can easily identify its purpose.
2. An email address for the group will be auto-generated based on the name. Review it and adjust if needed — this will be the address others use to email the group.
3. Add an optional description to help people understand the group's purpose.
4. Set the Privacy level:
   • Public: Anyone at Bowdoin can see the group's content and join without approval.
   • Private: Only members can see content; new members require owner approval.
5. Add members by typing their names or Bowdoin email addresses. Members outside Bowdoin can also be added as guests by entering their full email address.
6. Click Create. The group is now active and accessible from the Groups section in your Outlook sidebar.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

• Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
• Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
• In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
• Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.