We have all been on the ‘hook’ end of the ol' lead generation techniques. Even in the last week I have experienced a number of these ol' tactics. Last night I had two gentlemen knock on my door asking if they could clean my carpet. I received direct mail about hearing aids (and I am not even 40 yet) and even at work my inbox is filled each morning with emails from companies selling products and services that I have no interest in at all.
Maybe you can empathize with my woes. And as a marketer I am SO ready for companies to use new lead generation techniques that are not irrelevant to the people they are trying to reach.
As an owner or manager of your small business, are you ready to use lead generation techniques that people actually will find helpful and compelling?
Just to make sure we are on the same page when addressing new lead generation techniques and specifically in bound lead generation, let’s clarify a few things:
What is a lead?
A lead is a person who has in some way, shape, or form indicated interest in your company's product or service. (HubSpot)
What is lead generation?
It's a way of warming up potential customers to your business and getting them on the path to eventually buying. (HubSpot)
Essentially, a lead is generated through information collection.
After lead information is generated, it is used in a variety of lead generation techniques. Companies use our information to provide us with direct mail (which I affectionately call junk mail-and count the number of trees being wasted) they politely call us at the most inconvenient times, and push products in our face that are completely irrelevant to us.
Why should I use inbound lead generation?
Simple: Because it’s marketing people love. It is not irrelevant, not a waste of trees, nor does it interrupt people at dinner with their family. It’s marketing that generates leads because it provides helpful resources to people who are searching for answers and solutions. The beauty of it is that the leads generated are “warm” and interested in your product or service.
Do you want your business to be seen as helpful and trustworthy? Do you want to engage with people who are actually interested or in need of your products and services? Are you ready to attract, convert and delight customers to grow your business?
Well, Inbound marketing is RIGHT NOW doing this for business all over the globe. In the 2013 HubSpot ROI report, businesses reported results from their Inbound Marketing campaigns. 92.7% had an increase in leads. See the graph below for the results!
So, what exactly is Inbound Marketing?
We love to share about the shift in online marketing that is taking place. This infographic created by The Whole Brain Group, is a great, informative summary of what Inbound is all about and how it can help your business get more leads and more customers:
Are you ready to do lead generation differently in your company?
Are you ready for your business to NOT be annoying and frustrating to potential leads with your lead generation techniques?
Are you ready to see a better return on the investment you are putting into your lead generation strategy?
Are you ready for your sales team to be happy with your marketing?
Inbound marketing could very well be the strategy and shift your business is looking for. Learn more by reading our blog or give us a call today. We love to talk about inbound marketing! After all, it's our job. And don't worry, we are helpful and friendly folks!
