How to Segment An Email List: A Marketing Expert’s Secret

Have you ever woken up to an email about a product that you never purchased but you were just talking about recently with a friend? It felt like your phone was almost listening to you. This super savvy marketing strategy is the key to unlocking more customers with little cost. If you’re wondering how to segment an email list in order to get great results, read on.

What is Email Segmentation?

Think of email segmentation as a way of organizing your customers into different groups based on shared experiences, behaviors or preferences. By dividing people into these groups, it is easier to identify what specific needs these consumers have and what kind of products or services should be targeted to them to ensure a sale. When you properly segment your email list, customers benefit from more curated, relevant content.

Why Does Segmenting Your Email List Matter?

According to OptinMonster, 88% of users check their email several times throughout the day; 39% of whom noted they check their inbox three to five times daily. Segmenting your email list can drive engagement rates up because the media you are putting out is reaching the correct audience.

In fact, according to the same study by OptinMonster, 59% of consumers say marketing emails influence their purchase decisions. A customized audience will be receptive to your advertising because the brand or product being advertised aligns with them and their interests. Consumers will be less likely to unsubscribe from your email list because the information they are receiving is actually useful. You will likely see a higher return on your investment as well. Targeting a customer with the exact product that they want to buy will lead to better conversion rates.

learn how to segment an email list, pink iPad

How to Segment Your Business’s Email List

The most effective way to segment an email list for your business is through the use of Customer Relationship Management Tools (CRMs). Utilizing a CRM allows you to collect names and email addresses via forms on your website which then can be sorted into custom lists that tailor products to specific customers. To get started, research tools that align with your company’s goals—some CRM’s will allow you to get started for free, but will likely have usage restrictions.

3 Simple Ways to Segment An Email List

  • Demographics

To segment an email list by demographics, classify people based on their age, gender or location.

  • Psychographics

Segmenting by psychographics is to group people based off their attitudes, beliefs or lifestyle.

  • Email Engagement

To segment an email list by engagement, you can organize people by emails they’ve opened and the frequency of their purchases.

More Advanced Styles of Email Segmentation

Customer Journey Stage

This style of segmentation meets the customer at exactly what place they are in with their relationship to the company. Whether they are new subscribers or cart abandoners, this style of email marketing has great ROI for retail and e-commerce businesses.

For example, sending a limited-time discount off of a consumer’s first order tends to lead to higher chances of them actually purchasing. If they are satisfied with your product or service, they’ll likely reflect on their experience and repurchase.

Past Purchases

If a business already has an efficient CRM system put into place, this system can be used as a tool for segmenting. Grouping people who have purchased the same thing gives the company an area to advertise similar products. 

Why Should Businesses Invest in Email Marketing?

  • High ROI: Email marketing consistently delivers one of the highest returns on investment, often averaging $36–$42 for every $1 spent.
  • Direct Communication Channel: Emails go straight to a user’s inbox, providing a direct line of communication with your audience without relying on third-party platforms.
  • Personalization and Segmentation: With tools like CRMs, businesses can tailor messages based on customer behavior, interests and demographics, increasing engagement and conversions.
  • Customer Retention and Loyalty: Regular newsletters and offers keep your brand top-of-mind, encouraging repeat business and building long-term relationships.
  • Measurable Results: With open rates, click-through rates, conversions and A/B testing, businesses can track performance and continuously improve campaigns.
  • Scalability: Whether you’re reaching 10 or 10,000 customers, email marketing scales efficiently while maintaining low costs.
  • Automation Capabilities: Drip campaigns, welcome sequences, abandoned cart reminders and more can be automated to work around the clock with minimal effort.
  • Ownership of Audience: Unlike social media platforms, your email list is a business-owned asset, giving you full control over how and when you communicate with your customers.

How Can 898 Help Me With Email Marketing?

Email marketing is an interesting format of marketing because its digital footprint allows you to reach people in many different geographic locations. 898 Marketing has over 10 years of experience as a digital marketing agency. Known for our engaging partnerships and measurable results, we are a leading provider of email marketing services. Contact us today to learn more about our email marketing services and pro marketing tips!