What is the term for the initial point of contact that directs you to new prospects?

The term "lead" refers to an individual or organization that has expressed interest in a product or service, and it represents the initial point of contact that can potentially result in new business opportunities. Leads can arise from various sources, including marketing efforts, networking, or existing customer referrals. They serve as the foundation for sales and customer acquisition efforts, as they signal potential clients who may benefit from your services and are worth pursuing for further engagement.

By understanding the concept of a lead, a travel professional can focus on nurturing these initial contacts, transitioning them through the sales funnel, and ultimately converting them into clients. This is essential for building a sustainable business in the travel industry, where generating new prospects is critical to growth and success. In contrast, while referrals, introductions, and direct contacts are also important for business development, they relate to different aspects of the sales process, such as recommendations from existing clients or personal connections, rather than the broader category of leads that can emerge from various interactions and outreach strategies.