Lead generation would be any task that one performs where there is an expectation of getting the contact information for a potential new client.  I'd also broaden the definition to include "unintentional lead gen" such as hiking with a group and the topic of real estate comes up and someone is interested in finding out more.

As far as conversion, that starts with lead classification and qualifiication.  I don't work with leads that are "too far out" from doing anything.  I prefer leads that are ready to go within a short time frame.  For leads outside my preferred time frame, I don't pursue them.  Ones inside my time frame, conversion is easy because they're ready to become clients and it's usually straight off to a lender and then showing property.  Or it's straight off to a listing contract.

Way too broad a question.... so many ways of generating leads and converting them. 

Like some have mentioned I find the question too broad. I am not into converting people ... I let them convert their self.  It works for me. 

That dependdds on the prospecct profile. I use DISC to determine that then work them

Peter,

Here’s my definition for marketing aka lead generation. “Starting and nurturing meaningful conversations.” While there are hundreds (thousands) of ways to do this, the best has always been person to person.

People do business with people they know, like and trust. They have to have met you and had some interaction before they can like you and trust you. 

I would focus on ways to meet people, especially people who may be new to the area or who may be likely to buy or sell.

It is defined by my daily prospecting activity.  If they contact me I will convert them.

The approach to converting depends on how you generated those leads. 

We have many tools out there filling the pipeline, conversion generally starts with a call to set the appmt then moves on from there.

No idea, Peter Mohylsky 

Any inquiry where I can follow up!

Volumes of information could be explored in finding an answer.  

I agree with Nina Hollander .  Books have been written on the subject, and each year several more books are written.  A

I am with Nina Hollander 

Lead generation is when you have a legitimate name and contact information on a potential buyer or seller.  You convert them when you get them into contract.

Our Team generates leads from numerous sources,

The conversion is the difficult, time consuming, arduous part.

Let's just say that you have to have a plan and commit to the plan.

I can only define it for me Peter Mohylsky . For me effective lead generation only came by getting out of bed, putting one foot in front of the other, and getting out there to participate in the community. Physically meeting people was the only effective lead generation for me.

Nina has your answer....

The finds of new clients I suppose would be the simplest definition.

Serious efforts are needed.

I think you know what lead generation is.  As far as conversion, I find out what they want and expect then show and explain how I can provide it for them.  They also need to like and trust you. 

Lead Gen = Prospecting & Marketing

Lead generation is an umbrella term to describe all of the ways a salesperson finds potential clients. Converting them is as individual as clients are.

Simply put any system that generates leads. Then you work hard to get leads, you need to work hard to convert them. 

Great question Peter Mohylsky!  As you know, lead generation comes in many forms/types and from so many different avenues.  The bigger question IMHO, is how do you convert those leads once you get them?  In this day and age when almost no one answers their phone from an unknown number, (myself included), lead conversion will continue to be a growing problem for anyone in a sales related career.  Ideally, having working systems in place will provide a steady paycheck.

Cheers!

The process of garnering more business.    Stay in touch with them until they unsubscribe.

It is what I do daily by calls, direct mail and more.

Lead generation is a global term that needs more clarity when conversion is considered.

For example, some activities are for the purpose of 'list building' with the anticipation there is long term potential based on the mobility of the area.

Or, if the intent is the capture the "90 Day Market' the message and process is no longer an 'attritiation' candidate but one a greater focus and urgency.

More data needed.

lead are anyone who comes into a portal or in personal contact. Nuture is the next objective, then conversion, then delivery.

Oh, I could write a book on this one - painted with a very broad brush!

Most of my 'leads' are generated from repeat and referral business. Second would come from social media and third from my website. I have written & updated the site to generate leads from there. 

Conversion is another story - web leads are responded to immediately and the follow-up is also swift, consistent and PERSONALIZED to THE LEAD - not generic.

I make a distinction between a "contact" and a "lead."  A contact is made when you speak to an adult about your services.  A lead is generated when that contact indicates interest, of any time period or degree, in your services.

Conversion may be immediate (say, by setting an appointment during the first contact) or long term (through consistent direct marketing).  Either way,  lead generation is the name of the game.