I've shared tips before about using Gems to handle repetitive tasks in Gemini. They work well, but each Gem is a single set of instructions, and you can only chat with one of them at a time.
Google is now replacing Gems with Skills, which is closer to how most other AI tools work. The big difference is that you can call on several Skills in a single chat. One Skill can make a reply sound like you while another keeps it in plain English, and Gemini applies both at once.
Skills are rolling out in Google Workspace first, with the Gemini app to follow separately. So Gmail, Docs and the rest of Workspace is the place to start.
How to create a skill for Gemini in Workspace
Open Workspace Studio and click skills in the left-hand menu
Click Create at the top
Give your skill a name and a short description (for example: My Voice)
Chat with Gemini in the side panel on the left and let it help you create your skill, or simply add your own instructions on the right
Click Turn on once you're happy with the instructions
Open the Gemini side panel in any Workspace app (e.g. Gmail)
Type @ and select your skill/s
Type your request (for example: draft a reply to this email) and hit submit
That's it!
You'll also find a set of pre-made skills in Workspace Studio. They're a decent starting point, but I'd always customise them before turning enabling.
Quick note: Skills are rolling out for Gemini in Workspace first. Skills in the Gemini app will be separate for you (and you may not see skills in both places yet).
Watch me walk through this example
You can watch me demonstrate this feature live in a video exclusive to all newsletter subscribers here.
See you in the next one!
Dean
