What Is a Segment?
A Segment is a dynamic contact group built from filter rules. Segments update automatically as contacts match or stop matching the selected conditions. Unlike a static list, a Segment does not require manual contact updates.
Key Benefits of Segments
Segments help you send more relevant email campaigns. Use Segments to:
Target contacts by tags, fields, activity, or engagement
Automatically refresh campaign audiences
Combine filters with AND/OR logic
Reuse audience rules across campaigns
Reduce manual list maintenance
Open Email Campaigns
To start building a recipient Segment:
Go to Marketing.
Click Emails.
Open Campaigns.
Create a new campaign or open an existing campaign.
Open Send or Schedule
After building or editing the email content, click Send or Schedule in the top-right corner of the email builder. This opens the campaign sending settings.
Build the Recipient Segment
In the sending settings, go to Recipient (To). Select Build Segments. Use filter conditions to define who should receive the email.
Example:
Tag is
compliantAND Pre-built Segment is
Contacts engaged in last ...
Save, Review, and Send
After the Segment rules are configured:
Confirm the selected contacts count.
Review required fields.
Click Save to keep changes.
Click Review and Send when the campaign is ready.
Smart Lists vs. Segments
Smart Lists and Segments both group contacts, but they are used in different places.
Feature | Smart Lists | Segments |
Main location | Contact Manager | Email Campaign Builder |
Auto-updating | Yes | Yes |
Manual inclusion | Possible through tags or filters | No, filter logic only |
Reusable | Yes | Yes |
Best use | Managing contact views | Choosing email recipients |
Common Issues and Fixes
My Segment shows fewer contacts than expected
Check whether your filters use AND logic. AND requires every condition to be true.
I cannot manually add one contact to a Segment
Segments are filter-based. Add a tag or update the contact field so the contact matches the Segment rules.
I do not see Build Segments
Open the campaign sending settings from Send or Schedule and check the Recipient (To) section.
FAQ
Can I reuse the same Segment in different campaigns?
Yes. Saved Segments can be reused across email campaigns.
Are Segments live-updating or static?
Segments update automatically when contact data changes.
Can I use OR logic in Segments?
Yes. Use OR logic when contacts only need to match one of several conditions.
What is the difference between Smart Lists and Segments?
Smart Lists are mainly used for contact views. Segments are used inside email campaigns to choose recipients dynamically.
Can I manually add or remove contacts from a Segment?
No. A Segment only includes contacts that match its filter rules.