MQL vs SQL

MQL vs SQL describes the two key stages a lead moves through on the way to becoming a customer. An MQL (Marketing Qualified Lead) is a lead whose engagement — content downloads, site visits, demo interest — signals enough intent for sales to take a look, while an SQL (Sales Qualified Lead) is a lead that sales has vetted and accepted as a real opportunity worth pursuing. The handoff between them is where revenue is won or lost, which is why a shared, agreed definition of each stage matters. Misaligned MQL and SQL criteria are a leading cause of wasted leads and sales-marketing friction.