Before we go any further, let’s discuss what lead generation really is. Lead generation is capturing the attention of your ideal client in regards to your products or services. It is a chance to lead that person down the path from prospective client to a paying one.
You can attract these leads to your business in a number of ways. The most popular medium is to use digital methods like social media, freebie downloads and email marketing because it is far reaching and all inclusive. But in-person lead generation can also be effective, so don’t overlook networking too.
Lead generation follows a process – convert an unknown person to someone who is interested in your products or services, then get them to take the next step by becoming a paying client.
It is more meaningful than older forms of advertising which were like firing a shotgun and hoping that you hit something. With lead generation you can target the people that will be interested in what you have to say.
Why You Need Lead Generation
Apart from the fact that you need clients for your business to operate in the first place, your business is unlikely to grow without acquiring new clients.
Lead generation allows you to draw the right kind of people to your business with targeted offerings and content that will appeal to them. It allows small business to grow, develop and eventually become big businesses. When you are still in that small phase, you can compete on the same stage as the large corporations.
Obviously, you are going to need a strategy to obtain those targeted leads. Think about…
Who your ideal client is
What is their biggest problem or concern
What your business offers and the solution you provide
How you can build a relationship with meaningful dialogue
Tips For Successful Lead Generation
Lead generation is a varied field, so you want to have your fingers in a few pies. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket otherwise you will be solely reliant on that method. Instead, try a number of different methods to see which is the most effective for your business. Trial, test, experiment and be ruthless by cutting the ones that don’t work. Be persistent and constantly keep trying.
Ensure that the needs of your clients are at the heart of your strategy. You want to provide them with constant value, not come across as someone who only wants to push their product.
Build your brand presence on social media so that potential clients have visibility of what you do and why you do it. You can also use email marketing, SEO and high quality content to drive traffic back to your website.
Remember that lead generation is not about making an instant sale. It is beginning a conversation with a prospect, building a relationship and then asking for the sale.