Introduction to Microsoft 365 for Small Businesses
Small businesses thrive when they operate efficiently, communicate effectively, and secure their data. Mastering Microsoft 365 for Small Business Success, offered by GLC University, guides participants through Microsoft’s most powerful business tools—Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint, and Planner—showing how to integrate them into daily workflows. Through interactive lessons, practical activities, and real-world examples, learners gain the confidence to manage email and calendars, collaborate on documents in real time, coordinate projects, and protect sensitive information. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to harness Microsoft 365 as a strategic asset for sustainable business success.
Overview
Course Overview
This course equips small business owners, managers, and teams with the knowledge and hands-on skills to use Microsoft 365 as a complete productivity and collaboration solution. Participants will learn how to integrate its applications to streamline daily operations, improve communication, enhance collaboration, and safeguard business data.
By the end of the course, learners will confidently navigate Microsoft 365, manage settings, and apply its features strategically to support small business growth.
Lessons include:
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Lesson 1: Introduction to Microsoft 365 for Small Businesses
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Explore the Microsoft 365 ecosystem and its capabilities beyond email.
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Understand included applications such as Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Planner.
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Review subscription options for small businesses and select the right plan.
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Learn how Microsoft 365 supports hybrid and remote teams.
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Practical: Sign in, navigate the dashboard, and locate available applications.
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Lesson 2: Email, Calendar & Contact Management with Outlook
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Set up a professional email address and signature.
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Organise emails using folders, categories, and rules.
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Schedule meetings and manage events using the Outlook calendar.
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Integrate Outlook with Microsoft Teams for seamless communication.
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Practical: Send a professional email, schedule a recurring meeting, and add a business contact.
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Lesson 3: File Storage, Sharing & Collaboration with OneDrive and SharePoint
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Understand the difference between OneDrive (personal) and SharePoint (team).
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Create and share folders or documents securely.
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Manage file permissions and control access.
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Collaborate on documents in real time using Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Online.
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Explore SharePoint site basics including document libraries and workflows.
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Practical: Create a shared folder, upload a file, and share it for collaborative editing.
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Lesson 4: Team Communication & Project Management with Microsoft Teams and Planner
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Set up Teams and create channels for projects or departments.
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Use chat, video calls, and meeting features effectively.
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Share and co-edit files within Teams.
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Create, assign, and track tasks in Planner.
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Practical: Create a Team, set up a channel, and assign a Planner task.
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Lesson 5: Security, Settings & Integration for Business Growth
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Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for enhanced security.
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Manage user accounts, licenses, and permissions.
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Understand data backup and compliance requirements.
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Integrate Microsoft 365 with third-party business tools such as CRM or accounting software.
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Review usage analytics to improve productivity.
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Practical: Turn on MFA and review Admin Center settings.
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Curriculum
- 5 Sections
- 5 Lessons
- 1 Week
- Introduction to Microsoft 365 for Small Businesses2
- Email, Calendar & Contact Management with Outlook2
- File Storage, Sharing & Collaboration with OneDrive and SharePoint2
- Team Communication & Project Management with Microsoft Teams and Planner2
- Security, Settings & Integration for Business Growth2
Instructor
Requirements
- A stable internet connection to access the online course materials and activities.
- A Microsoft 365 Business subscription (trial or active) for hands-on practice.
- Basic computer literacy, including the ability to navigate web browsers and use standard applications.
- Access to a laptop or desktop computer (recommended) for completing practical exercises.
- Willingness to apply the skills learned to real business processes for maximum impact.
- Optional: Headset or microphone for participating in any live Q&A or coaching sessions.
Features
- Comprehensive, step-by-step lessons covering Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint, Planner, and security essentials.
- Practical activities in every lesson to reinforce learning and ensure immediate application.
- Real-world examples tailored to small business operations.
- Downloadable resources and guides for ongoing reference.
- Quizzes to check understanding and track progress.
- Flexible online access so learners can complete the course at their own pace.
- Course completion certificate from GLC University to showcase skills gained.
Target audiences
- Small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to make full use of Microsoft 365.
- Managers and team leaders looking to streamline communication and project coordination.
- Administrative professionals who handle scheduling, file management, and office communication.
- Remote and hybrid teams needing better collaboration and workflow tools.
- Startups seeking affordable, scalable digital tools for business growth.
- Freelancers and consultants who work with multiple clients and projects.
