How to insert signatures in Google Docs

This post explains how to add a digital signature to Google Docs, offering a makeshift method for inserting signatures. It involves creating and downloading a digital signature, then uploading and resizing it in the document. However, it emphasizes the limitations of this approach, highlighting the benefits of using a dedicated eSignature tool for professionalism, security, efficiency, compliance, and more. Papersign is recommended as a comprehensive solution for digital document management.

Google Docs is everyone's favourite online document editor. It's simple enough to whip up a quick contract, proposal or offer letter in Docs in a few minutes. But did you know you can (kind of) sign documents with it too?

In this post, we'll show how you can insert digital signatures in Google Docs, and avoid the dreaded act of scanning and uploading a handwritten signature.

How to add a signature in Google Docs

These steps guide you through the process of adding a signature to your Google Doc, providing a quick and makeshift way to insert a handwritten signature.

1. Create and download your digital signature using our free eSignature generator.

1. Open the Google Doc you need to sign.

3. Select Insert from the toolbar at the top of your page, navigate to Image, and then click Upload from computer.

3. Select the digital signature file and click Open.

5.  Resize it to the required dimensions, and position it in the right place within the document.

Why a dedicated eSignature tool is a smart move

While adding a handwritten signature to a Google Doc document is possible—and easy with our free eSignature generator—this method falls short when it comes to professionalism, security, and efficiency.

If making signature documents is a regular part of your workflow, you’re going to need the reliability and trustworthiness of a dedicated e-signature platform.

Compliant signatures

A dedicated e-signature solution ensures that signatures comply with international laws and regulations. This assurance is crucial for contracts and for any business that requires enforceable signatures—not just a scribble inserted in a Google doc.

(Source: Papersign)

Security and authentication

E-signature platforms employ advanced encryption and authentication methods to protect the integrity and confidentiality of documents. This level of security is often unattainable with traditional or makeshift signing methods.

Efficiency and convenience

E-signature solutions streamline the signing process, allowing documents to be signed, shared, and stored electronically. This efficiency eliminates the need for printing, scanning, and physical storage, saving both time and resources.

Professionalism and branding

A dedicated e-signature platform offers a polished and professional appearance, enhancing the credibility of your documents. Customization options allow for branding and a consistent look that aligns with your organization's identity.

(Source: Papersign)

Collaboration and workflow integration

E-signature solutions facilitate collaboration by enabling multiple parties to sign documents in a specified order. Integration with existing tools and compatibility with multiple document formats ensure a seamless process from creation to signing.

Accessibility and global reach

With an e-signature platform, documents can be signed from anywhere in the world, providing accessibility and flexibility. This global reach is essential for businesses operating across different regions and time zones.

Cost-effective

Eliminating the costs associated with printing, shipping, and storing physical documents, e-signature solutions offer a cost-effective alternative.

(Source: Papersign)

Get started with Papersign

Next time you're faced with the task of signing Google Doc, point your colleagues to Papersign instead. With Papersign, the days of inserting a makeshift signature are over—with a dedicated signature solution, you can send, sign, and manage all your digital documents in one place.

Need more help to convince your boss? Here are six reasons to leave the dinosaur signing methods behind, and adopt a proper eSignature solution.

Related reading

• Wet signatures vs eSignatures: which is right for your business?
• The 7 best eSignature apps in 2023
• 7 simple steps for a paperless office
• How to set up a paperless onboarding process
• How to add an electronic signature in Microsoft Word