Outbound lead generation refers to the process of finding and engaging potential customers that fit the requisite customer profile of a company. It is distinguished from inbound lead generation in which customers are attracted to the company and seek it out on their own. Generating leads in this way requires a large number of targets but can produce more sales opportunities in a shorter period than other methods. It gives a company control of the types of customers it is targeting and allows them to get ahead of their competitors.
As the internet has come to penetrate every aspect of customer’s lives, it has simplified finding outbound leads through the use of automation and personalization. Customer relationship management software, for example, can scour directories and sites for prospects and then generate a personalized outreach to them. Done at scale, even a small success rate can generate significant outbound leads using thee methods.