Leads are defined as which of the following?

Leads are defined as companies or individuals representing potential customers because they indicate an interest in a product or service, but have not yet committed to making a purchase. This definition encompasses a broad category of prospects, reflecting the initial stage of the sales process where the goal is to nurture these leads and convert them into customers. Identifying leads is crucial for businesses as it allows sales teams to focus their efforts on individuals or organizations that may eventually contribute to revenue.

Other categories mentioned, such as confirmed customers, lost customers, or high-value prospects, represent different stages in the customer lifecycle and do not capture the essence of what a lead is. Confirmed customers have already made a purchase, lost customers represent those who previously engaged but are no longer active, and high-value prospects are a more targeted segment that may emerge from a larger pool of leads. Thus, refining the definition to potential customers provides clarity on their role in the sales process.