Lead generation encompasses many different activities. And there’s so much information about online lead generation that it can be difficult to narrow down the best ideas for your business.

While content marketing and lead generation are continually changing, there are a few techniques that are relevant for a wide range of businesses- regardless of the industry. Most of the time, lead generation is about collecting information from your prospects- such as an email address or phone number.

Since people are unlikely to just give out their email addresses for nothing, you need to offer these potential leads something they’ll consider valuable in return. This is often a lead magnet, which could range from a free e-course to an informational whitepaper.

Here are some of the best lead generation ideas for you to get started:

Launch a Company Blog
A company blog is a crucial part of most online lead generation strategies. These can include round-ups, educational posts, information about new products, tips and tricks, and more.

When you consistently provide potential leads with helpful information, you can earn their trust and ensure they’re likely to sign up to your newsletter or download your lead magnet. And this makes it much easier for you to convert them into paying customers.

Use Videos
These days, videos are becoming more and more important for lead generation. With Facebook Live, you can connect directly with potential leads and answer their questions in real time.

Another great way to attract leads? Create a promo video. This makes it easy for you to educate website visitors and social media followers about your latest product or service. Try to keep these videos short so you’re more likely to keep your viewers’ attention. If you’re not great at public speaking or video editing, it’s often worth hiring someone to ensure your video will create a good first impression.

Start Influencer Marketing
Influencer marketing is currently the number one marketing strategy for new customer acquisition in the B2C space. But even B2B businesses can leverage influencer marketing.

This can be achieved by letting industry experts and influencers try your product for free in return for a review or promotion on social media. Not only is this a good way to create backlinks, but you can also tap into each influencer’s loyal audience.

Improve Your Button Copy
You’re probably already aware that the type of copy you use for CTAs and on buttons impacts your conversion rate. Use action verbs, and try using the word “get” whenever possible.

Another option? Verb +offer+ urgency. This could be “Download this free ebook now!” or “Save 50% now!”.

Use Testimonials
Potential customers and clients love testimonials. However, there’s a difference between a testimonial stating that your business is “awesome” and a persuasive testimonial. The best testimonials should highlight a problem your target customer has. It should go into detail about how your product solves that problem, and highlight the results.

To get these testimonials, simply get in touch with your happiest customers or clients and ask for a quick interview. Some customers will even allow you to write the testimonial and then send it to them for approval.

Add Popups
While most people agree that popups are annoying, businesses use them because they work. Popups don’t need to be intrusive, and exit-intent popups can help you collect emails from people who would otherwise leave your website (and potentially never return).

Exit-intent popups are a great way to offer potential leads your lead magnet or newsletter and can help you get a much higher ROI from your marketing budget.

These are just a few of the best lead generation ideas for 2018. If you’d like to learn more about how you can use your website to generate leads, get in touch today and let’s chat.

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