Definition
A lead that sales has vetted and confirmed has budget, authority, need, and timeline to plausibly become a customer.
Why it matters for growth
SQL is the handoff point where sales takes ownership; tracking SQL conversion separately from MQL exposes whether marketing is sending the right leads.
Example
After a discovery call confirms budget and a real buying timeline, a rep marks the lead as an SQL in the pipeline.
FAQ
- What is Sales Qualified Lead (SQL)?
- A lead that sales has vetted and confirmed has budget, authority, need, and timeline to plausibly become a customer.
- Why does Sales Qualified Lead (SQL) matter for growth?
- SQL is the handoff point where sales takes ownership; tracking SQL conversion separately from MQL exposes whether marketing is sending the right leads.
- What is an example of Sales Qualified Lead (SQL)?
- After a discovery call confirms budget and a real buying timeline, a rep marks the lead as an SQL in the pipeline.