In sales, “lead source” refers to the origin or channel through which a potential customer (lead) discovered your business or how they entered your sales pipeline.
Knowing the lead source helps you:
Understand which marketing channels are performing best
Allocate budget more effectively
Optimize your customer acquisition strategy
Track return on investment (ROI)
Website contact form
Google Ads / Paid Search
Organic search (SEO)
Social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, etc.)
Trade shows or events
Referrals
Cold calls or emails
Third-party marketplaces
WhatsApp or other messaging apps
If someone fills out a form after seeing a Facebook ad, the lead source is Facebook Ads.
If they call your office after a friend recommended you, the lead source is Referral.