Open a Shared Mailbox in Microsoft 365 Outlook

Overview 

This article provides step-by-step instructions for accessing a shared mailbox in Microsoft 365 Outlook. Methods include opening it via Outlook on the Web, the Outlook Desktop App, and adding it to your Outlook mobile app.

Method 1: Outlook on the Web (OWA) 

Step 1: Log in to Office 365

1. Open your web browser and go to https://www.office.com.

2. Click the Outlook icon to access your email.

   • Alternative direct link: https://outlook.office.com/mail/.

Step 2: Open the Shared Mailbox 

1. In Outlook on the Web, click your profile picture in the upper-right corner.

2. Select Open another mailbox.

3. Enter the shared mailbox email address (e.g., department@vpcc.edu).

4. Click Open.

5. The shared mailbox will open in a new browser tab.

Method 2: Outlook Desktop App 

Step 1: Open Outlook 

1. Launch the Outlook desktop application on your computer.

2. Ensure you are signed in with your VPCC Microsoft 365 account.

Step 2: Add the Shared Mailbox 

1. Click File → Account Settings → Account Settings.

2. Select your account and click Change → More Settings → Advanced tab.

3. Click Add under Open these additional mailboxes.

4. Enter the shared mailbox name and click OK.

5. Click Apply and OK, then Next → Finish.

6. The shared mailbox will now appear in your Outlook folder pane.

Method 3: Outlook Mobile App 

Step 1: Open the Outlook Mobile App 

1. Open the Outlook app on your mobile device.

2. Ensure you are signed in with your VPCC account.

Step 2: Add the Shared Mailbox 

1. Tap your profile icon in the upper-left corner.

2. Tap Add Account → Add Shared Mailbox.

3. Enter the shared mailbox email address (e.g., department@vpcc.edu).

4. Tap Add Shared Mailbox to complete the process.

5. The mailbox will now appear in your Outlook app folder list.