What is a Lead in Salesforce?

A Lead in Salesforce refers to a potential customer who has shown interest in your products or services but has not yet been qualified or converted into a more formal sales opportunity. This definition emphasizes the early stage of the sales process, where the individual's interest can be nurtured to determine their potential as a customer.

Leads capture vital information about individuals or businesses that may benefit from what you offer. They can originate from various sources such as web forms, marketing campaigns, or referrals. The goal of managing leads in Salesforce is to engage with them effectively, understand their needs, and guide them through the sales funnel towards making a purchase decision.

Finalized sales agreements, qualified customers, and completed interaction processes all pertain to later stages in the customer lifecycle rather than the initial phase represented by leads. Thus, the focus on capturing interest positions leads as crucial starting points for converting prospects into committed customers.