Microblogging 'can boost' lead generation

Operating on microblogging services can be an ideal way for firms to boost lead generation and become popular with consumers.

This is according to Rhino Marketing, which noted recent research revealed firms that have a presence on such as Twitter - possibly as part of a lead generation campaign - are looked upon more favourably by customers.

Three-quarters of those who took part in the Harris Interactive survey said they felt companies maintaining a microblog are more trustworthy than those that are not.

According to the news agency, a growing number of businesses are allocating a significant amount of their internet marketing budgets to running such blogs.

And they may need to increase the amount they spend online even further, as the Harris Interactive study also showed 90 per cent of participants use the internet to carry out price and product comparisons, while 39 per cent said they see the web as key to their future decision-making process.

However, firms may wish to ensure they keep some money aside for other forms of lead generation, such as telemarketing.

Julian Leahy of Search Finalist recently told SmartCompany cold-calling is a successful form of securing new leads.

He explained he operates a team of three people, which brings in around 75 fresh sales opportunities every week.