Back to the Roots in 2012 – TOP 15 Lead-Generators that Work Best

Hey Guys, Hope you're doing great and had great NY party! Usually I discuss trends and modern techniques in the beginning of the new year, but this time I would like to return to the roots, the basics of digital marketing - Leads. We all know how leads are important - that's the one of the most important things for all the internet marketers and their businesses. Before inventing the new ways to generate leads (by the way - our new Lead Extractor software can do it automatically!) please see the list of Top 15 Lead-generators that work best. And remember - basics are called basics, because they work best! See the list below!

Free reports. Whitepapers, e-books, articles, and guides are some of the most common lead magnets. Be sure to provide compelling information to make a valid value exchange between your prospect and your business.

Coupons and offers. These are especially important in retail, because consumers can easily price-shop for products. Remember, people respond to relevancy, so a targeted offer to a segmented list is most effective.

Podcast. Establish yourself as an expert in your industry and push out content. Doing so will differentiate your business from the competition.

Creative forms. Maximize the effectiveness of simple contact forms by using them to showcase your company's personality. Be conversational and inviting to your audience.

Loyalty programs. Highlight the benefits of becoming a repeat customer. Offer something exclusive, such as priority registrations or speedy checkouts.

Bonus. Reduce purchase anxiety by adding value to the transaction. For example, offer free two-day shipping or a buy-one, get-one-free deal.

Free education. Never underestimate the power of content. Be your prospect's go-to source for quality education and information.

Limited-time free trial. Give prospects the opportunity to experience the benefits of your product or service. Hopefully, they will realize they can't go another day without it.

Membership. Make prospects feel special, invite them into your VIP group, and give them free information so they feel a part of your club. Loyal fans and followers have the power to convert others.

Gate pricing and other information. If your goal is to target hot leads, hiding your pricing behind a form can be an effective tactic. The form will help filter out unqualified leads, and capturing their information will help you follow up with targeted prospects.

Assessment or test. Encourage prospects to measure themselves against your expertise or industry standards. That will be your opportunity to give feedback and ideas while prospects determine their need for your product or service.

Demo. Introduce your offering and demonstrate its capabilities.

Online seminar/webinar. Deliver content quickly via a free, interactive webinar.

RSS feed. Stay in touch with leads via your blog; offer an RSS feed that they can subscribe to.

Email Series. Set up an automatic email or direct-mail series that will gradually lead your prospects through the sales cycle. A drip sequence of educational emails keeps your business top of mind with consumers.