How to Access Google Drive Files Shared with Your Work Email
You’ve just received a Google Drive share link from a vendor in your work inbox. When you click it, Google tells you that you don’t have permission to view the files. Don’t worry—this is a common hiccup when the shared address isn’t a Gmail account.
Why You’re Getting the Permission Error
When a Drive link is restricted to specific users, Google checks the email address against its list of authorized viewers. Since your work address isn’t tied to any Google account, Google can’t verify your identity—and denies access.
Creating a Google Account with Your Work Email
Follow these steps to set up a Google account using your existing work address:
Visit accounts.google.com/signup.
Click “Use my current email address instead.”
Enter your work email in the username field.
Choose a strong password and confirm it.
Provide a recovery phone number and an alternate email.
Complete any CAPTCHA verification and click “Next.”
Securing Your New Account
It’s crucial to lock down your account so you never lose access:
Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) via your phone or an authenticator app.
Verify your recovery phone number and recovery email.
These steps ensure that you remain in control of your work-email-based Google account.
Accessing the Shared Files
Once your account is created and secured:
Sign in at drive.google.com with your work email and password.
Paste or click the vendor’s share link again.
You should now see the files in your Drive or in a “Shared with me” folder.
Congratulations—access granted.
Staring at instructions like they’re ancient hieroglyphs? Don’t sweat it—we’re here to translate them and guide you through.