Speed-to-Lead
The time elapsed between a prospect expressing interest (submitting a form) and the business responding to them.
Speed-to-lead is the single most critical factor in closing online leads. Research shows that you are 21x more likely to qualify a lead if you respond within the first 5 minutes compared to 30 minutes later.
Why Speed Kills (Competition)
In high-stakes industries like Solar or Legal, the lead has likely filled out forms on 3 different sites. The winner is often simply the one who calls first.
How to Automate It
- Instant SMS: Send a text confirmation immediately upon form submit.
- CRM Sync: Push data to your sales team’s Slack/CRM instantly (no email delays).
- Calendar Booking: Let the user book a time directly on the “Thank You” page.
Related Concepts
Lead Nurturing
The process of developing relationships with buyers at every stage of the sales funnel and through every step of the buyer's journey.
MQL (Marketing Qualified Lead)
A lead who has indicated interest in what a brand has to offer based on marketing efforts or is more likely to become a customer than other leads.
Gated Content
High-value content that requires a user to provide their contact information to access.