This n8n workflow connects to your email inbox, uses AI to classify each email (urgent, billing, support, spam, personal), drafts appropriate responses for routine emails, and sends Slack alerts for urgent items that need human attention.
TL;DR — Key Takeaways
- AI Email Triage and Auto-Response with n8n — Intermediate level
- Tool: n8n
- 5 steps with detailed instructions
- Prerequisites: n8n, IMAP email access, OpenAI API key, Slack webhook, Google Sheets API
Use Case
Small businesses and solo founders receiving 50-200 emails per day who want to prioritize and automate routine responses.
Prerequisites
n8n, IMAP email access, OpenAI API key, Slack webhook, Google Sheets API
Workflow Diagram
AI Email Triage and Auto-Response with n8n
Step-by-Step Guide
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Email Trigger Node
Use the IMAP Email trigger node. Set polling to every 5 minutes. Configure to only process unread emails. Mark emails as read after processing to avoid duplicates.
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AI Classification Node
Use an HTTP Request node to call OpenAI with a classification prompt: 'Categorize this email into: URGENT, BILLING, SUPPORT, SALES, SPAM, OTHER. Also extract: sender intent, required action, response deadline.' Return as JSON.
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Routing Logic
Add a Switch node based on the AI classification. URGENT goes to Slack alert + draft response. BILLING goes to billing template auto-response. SUPPORT goes to knowledge base lookup. SPAM goes to trash. OTHER goes to inbox for manual review.
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Auto-Response Drafting
For SUPPORT and BILLING categories, use AI to draft a response: 'Draft a professional email response to this inquiry. Use our standard tone. Reference relevant policy if applicable.' Save draft in your email drafts folder for human review before sending.
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Analytics and Logging
Log all classifications and actions to a Google Sheet. Track: volume by category, auto-response rate, average response time, escalation rate. Generate a weekly summary report.
Tags
This workflow answers:
- How to set up ai email triage and auto-response with n8n
- What tools and access you need
- How to troubleshoot common issues