How to Create and Send Targeted Emails in Salesforce Marketing Cloud (SFMC)

Creating and sending targeted emails in SFMC involves designing an email, segmenting the audience, and sending it via Email Studio, Journey Builder, or Automation Studio.

Step 1: Create an Email in Content Builder

1. Go to Email Studio → Click on Content Builder.
2. Click Create → Select Email Message.
3. Choose from:
   • Templates (drag-and-drop editor)
   • HTML Paste (for custom-coded emails)
4. Design your email using images, text, buttons, and dynamic content.
5. (Optional) Use AMPscript or Personalization Strings for customization, e.g.,
   • %%FirstName%%, check out our latest offers!
6. Click Save & Activate

Step 2: Segment Your Audience

Using Data Extensions (Recommended for Advanced Users)

1. Go to Email Studio → Click on Subscribers → Data Extensions.
2. Create a new Data Extension with relevant fields (e.g., First Name, Email, City, Last Purchase Date).
3. Use SQL Queries or Filters in Automation Studio to segment audiences based on behavior, demographics, or engagement.

Using Lists (Basic Users)

1. Go to Subscribers → Lists.
2. Create a new list or use existing lists.
3. Apply filters (e.g., only active subscribers, users from a specific location).

Step 3: Send the Targeted Email

Option 1: User-Initiated Send (One-Time Campaigns)

1. Go to Email Studio → Click Email Sends.
2. Select the email you created.
3. Choose your Sender Profile.
4. Select your Audience List or Data Extension.
5. (Optional) A/B Test Subject Lines, Content, or Send Times.
6. Click Send Now or Schedule for later.