Email automation can increase personal connection with an audience by allowing for communication in a way that wouldn't be possible otherwise, providing opportunities for subscribers to reach back out. To build this connection, start a customer journey with a welcome series that sets the tone and encourages an emotional connection. This should include information about your product or service and its value, demonstrating why customers are interested and how you can help them. The series should also share your business's story, showcasing values and uniqueness to make email campaigns personal. Segmenting the audience allows for targeted messages that cater to individual interests and purchase history, boosting engagement. Finally, adding value with targeted automations such as birthday mailers and loyalty rewards demonstrates appreciation and encourages brand advocacy.