Inbound Lead Response Sequence

Sequence Overview

Speed matters. The goal is to make contact within 5 minutes of lead submission. This sequence covers the first 7 days with declining intensity.

Step	Timing	Channel	Purpose
1	Within 5 minutes	Phone call	Immediate connection attempt
2	Within 10 minutes	Email	Personalized follow-up referencing their request
3	Within 15 minutes	LinkedIn connection request	Open a second channel
4	2 hours later	Phone call #2	Second attempt if no answer
5	Next morning	Email #2	Add value, share a relevant resource
6	Day 2, afternoon	Phone call #3	Third attempt
7	Day 3	LinkedIn message	Casual follow-up on LinkedIn
8	Day 5	Email #3	Breakup email with a soft close
9	Day 7	Phone call #4	Final attempt

First Call Script

“Hi [First Name], this is [Your Name] from [Company]. I saw that you just [specific action, e.g., downloaded our guide on X, requested a demo]. I wanted to reach out while it is fresh. Do you have 2 minutes to tell me what prompted you to check us out?”

If they answer, ask these discovery questions:

1. What problem were you trying to solve when you found us?
2. Have you looked at any other solutions?
3. What does your timeline look like for making a decision?
4. Who else on your team would be involved in evaluating this?

Email Templates

Email #1 (Within 10 minutes):

Subject: Your [resource/demo] request

“Hi [First Name], thanks for [specific action]. I just tried calling you as well. I would love to learn more about what you are working on at [Company] and see if we can help. Are you available for a 15-minute call [suggest 2 specific times]?”

Email #2 (Next morning):

Subject: Thought this might help

“Hi [First Name], while I have you, here is a [case study/resource] from [similar company] that shows how they [achieved specific result]. It might be useful context as you explore options. Still happy to chat if the timing works.”

Email #3 (Day 5, breakup):

Subject: Should I close the loop?

“Hi [First Name], I have reached out a few times and I want to be respectful of your time. If [problem/goal] is still a priority, I am here to help. If not, no worries. Just let me know either way and I will update my notes.”

Lead Qualification Criteria

Before booking a meeting, confirm these basics during the first conversation:

• Need: They have an active pain point your product addresses.
• Authority: They can influence or make the purchasing decision.
• Timeline: They plan to evaluate or purchase within the next 6 months.
• Budget: They have budget allocated, or a clear path to getting it approved.

If the lead meets 3 of 4 criteria, book the meeting. If they meet fewer than 3, add them to a nurture sequence.