Overview
Build the follow-up sequence once, under Manual Assignment, then use a status-change automation to put leads into it.
Two reasons this is better than putting the whole sequence inside the status-change automation:
The sequence is reusable — one place to edit, rather than the same steps copied across several automations
Manual Assignment automations can be applied to existing leads in bulk, so the same sequence works for day-to-day flow and for re-engaging an old list
Steps
Step 1: Go to Automations → Leads → Manual Assignment
Step 2: Build the sequence you want to reuse
Step 3: Name it clearly
Match the name to the stage or purpose. When you have a dozen of these, clear naming is what tells you which trigger feeds which sequence.
Step 4: Create a Lead Status Changed automation
For the status that should start the sequence.
Step 5: Add the action that moves the lead into the Manual Assignment automation
Step 6: Add a stop action if you need one
If only one follow-up sequence should run at a time, add Stop All Previous Automations before the new sequence begins. See How to Prevent Multiple Automations from Running on the Same Lead.
Step 7: Test
Move a sample lead into the status and confirm it lands in the right sequence.
Important Notes
Manual Assignment automations can be bulk applied to existing leads. That is the main reason to structure it this way.
Status-change automations handle day-to-day movement through your pipeline.
One sequence in one place avoids maintaining duplicate copies of the same follow-up.
Multiple automations can run at once unless you explicitly stop the previous ones.
All of a sequence's tasks are created when the lead enters it, including ones scheduled for later dates. They remain on the lead even if the automation is stopped.
Frequently asked questions
Why not build the whole sequence inside the status-change automation?
You can. But keeping it in Manual Assignment means you can also apply it to existing leads in bulk, and you only maintain it once.
Can I use the same sequence for re-engagement?
Yes — that is a common use, taking older leads and putting them through the same follow-up.
What happens if another automation is already running?
It keeps running. Multiple automations run at the same time unless you stop the previous ones.
Troubleshooting
The lead did not enter the sequence
Check the status-change automation points at the correct Manual Assignment sequence.
Review Automation Enrollment and Automation Activity.
Confirm the automation is active.
The lead is getting messages from two sequences
Expected, unless you added a stop action. See How to Prevent Multiple Automations from Running on the Same Lead.
Related
How to Prevent Multiple Automations from Running on the Same Lead
How to Bulk Add Leads to an Automation
How to Troubleshoot an Automation That Didn't Run