Marketing Qualified Lead vs. Sales Qualified Lead: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between Marketing Qualified Lead and Sales Qualified Lead is that Marketing Qualified Leads show interest, while Sales Qualified Leads are ready to buy.

Before we move to more differences, let’s first understand Marketing Qualified Lead and Sales Qualified Lead:

  • Marketing Qualified Lead: A Marketing Qualified Lead is someone who shows interest in a product or service. They might sign up for a newsletter or download a free guide. This person is like a friend you’ve just met.
  • Sales Qualified Lead: A Sales Qualified Lead is a person who is very interested in buying something. They might ask about the price or when they can get it. This person is like a friend who is ready to buy a gift.

Now, let’s get to Marketing Qualified Lead vs Sales Qualified Lead:

Major differences between Marketing Qualified Lead and Sales Qualified Lead

Marketing Qualified Lead Sales Qualified Lead
Marketing Qualified Lead is based on marketing interactions, such as downloading a whitepaper. Sales Qualified Lead is based on direct engagement with a sales representative.
MQLs are typically earlier in the sales funnel and show interest. SQLs are further along and more likely to make a purchase.
MQLs may not be ready to buy immediately. SQLs have demonstrated intent to purchase.
MQLs require further nurturing and education. SQLs are ready for a sales conversation.
MQLs focus on capturing leads. SQLs focus on converting leads into customers.

So, these are the main differences between the entities.

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