What is a Click-Based Trigger?
— And how do they turn your email list into an email marketing automation system that is packed with personalized experiences (without you lifting a finger)?
Imagine having a subscriber read your email, click on something that speaks to them—and immediately get sent the next right thing without you doing a single extra task.
That’s the power of email marketing automation—and click-based (aka behavior-based) workflows are one of the simplest, most effective ways to start.
If you’ve ever wished your emails felt more human, more strategic, or more intuitive… this is the next step.
Let’s break down what click-based automations are, why they matter, and how to use them in a way that feels supportive (not salesy).
Here’s the Scoop on Click-Based Automations
Click-based automations are one of the most beginner-friendly forms of email marketing automation, because they rely on actions your reader is already taking.
That one click can:
- Add a tag to their contact profile (like “interested in burnout content”)
- Start a new automation (like a 3-email nurture series)
- Remove or pause them from another sequence (so they don’t get conflicting info)
- Trigger a sales or service pitch—only if they’ve shown interest
It’s like giving your audience invisible forks in the road—so they can choose their own adventure while you stay hands-off.
Why Does Email Marketing Automation and Click Based Triggers Matter?
Because not everyone on your list wants or needs the same thing.
Let’s say you’re a mindset coach who also teaches productivity. You write one email that includes links to:
- A blog post about self-doubt
- A free planner template
- Your coaching session waitlist
Each link is woven into the copy naturally—not three stacked CTAs, but contextual links that give readers a chance to lean in if it speaks to them.
Depending on which link your reader clicks, you now know:
- What problem they’re focused on
- How ready they are to invest
- What kind of support they’re looking for
That’s not just good data.
That’s strategic gold.
Click-based automations help you:
- Personalize without guessing
- Increase conversions by meeting people where they are
- Make your emails feel more like a conversation and less like a broadcast
- Respect your reader’s energy and preferences (and your own)
Real-Life Example: How This Works in Practice
Let’s continue with the mindset coach who also teaches productivity strategies exmaple. You send this email:
Subject: What’s working for me right now (and what’s not)
Hey [Name],
Lately I’ve been noticing how different my energy feels depending on why I’m working—not just what I’m doing.
When I catch myself spiraling in self-doubt, I’ve been grounding back into this blog post that helps me reset my mindset. On more structured days, I’ve been using this planner template to bring a little order to the chaos without overcomplicating my schedule.
Each tool supports a different kind of day—but they’ve all helped me stay focused, intentional, and way less burned out.
If you’re ready for deeper support, I just opened a few spots on my coaching session waitlist. If you’re feeling scattered or stuck, this might be the gentle nudge you’ve been waiting for.
Talk soon,
Michelle
Here’s what happens behind the scenes:
- A reader who clicks the self-doubt blog post gets tagged as “Interested in Mindset Support” and enters a nurture sequence with additional resources and reflections.
- Someone who clicks the planner template link is tagged as “Interested in Productivity Tools” and receives a follow-up email with tips for sustainable structure and flow.
- A click on the coaching session waitlist adds them to a “1:1 Coaching – Waitlist” segment and triggers a short sequence to prep them for next steps and deepen the connection.
These automations can also pause or delay other sequences to prevent overlap—so each reader gets the most relevant content without being overwhelmed.
How to Set It Up
You don’t need a huge list or advanced funnel to start using email marketing automation. Even one click-triggered flow can make a big impact.
Here’s what you need:
✅ An email service provider that supports automation + tagging
MailerLite, ConvertKit, ActiveCampaign, Flodesk, and many others can do this.
✅ Clear content buckets
Think about the key areas you talk about. If you’re a wellness coach, it might be: stress management, boundaries, nervous system support, etc.
If you’re a brand designer, maybe: DIY tips, template shop, custom services.
These become your click options.
✅ A “choose your path” email
This can be:
- A one-time broadcast
- A welcome email
- A quarterly check-in
- A re-engagement campaign
Frame it like a soft invitation to help you support them better.
✅ Pre-written automations (start small!)
Even just one follow-up email per path is enough to start with.
You can build from there as you grow.
What Makes This Work (aka: Don’t Skip This Part)
Click automations are powerful—but only if they’re intentional.
Here’s how to make them work well:
- Keep it simple: 2–3 options max. Don’t overwhelm your reader.
- Match the CTA to the stage: Don’t drop a full-service pitch on someone who just clicked “I’m overwhelmed.”
- Use friendly, natural language: This isn’t a BuzzFeed quiz. It’s a chance to connect.
- Always give them a way out: Include unsubscribe options or preferences links so they stay in control.
Bonus tip: You can even link to regular blog posts and use clicks as passive data! Just start tagging based on content they’re consuming.
Ready to Use Email Marketing Automation Based on Behavior?
Click-based automation isn’t just a smart strategy. It’s also an act of respect.
It shows your audience that you’re listening. That you’re thoughtful. That you care about what they need—not just what you’re trying to sell.
And it gives you the power to create a business that runs with more ease, more clarity, and more consistency (even on the days you need to unplug).
IIf you’re ready to map out a smart, personalized email marketing automation system, grab the Email Momentum Map—it’s a free, no-fluff guide to help you get started.
Or check out Inbox Illumination if you’re ready to bring me in for a custom automation strategy that reflects your business, your energy, and your goals.
