lead generation

Lead generation is the production of lists of potential customers to be contact for sales. There are a number of companies that specialize in industry specific, targeted sales lead generation. These companies offer actively maintained lists of fresh leads and offer access to sales organizations on a subscription or pay-per-use basis. In some cases the leads may be shared, in which case the customer may already have been exposed to solicitation. In other cases (usually with higher subscription fees) lead lists for which you have sole access can be purchased.

 
Related terms: sales leads, business leads, lead management, lead management software