Glossary/Measurement & Attribution/Marketing Qualified Lead (MQL)
Measurement & Attribution
Marketing Qualified Lead (MQL)
A lead whose engagement or fit indicates readiness for further nurturing or sales follow-up, according to criteria marketing and sales agree on.
By Brandon Mina·CEO, BrandPilot AI·Updated November 2026
Short answer
A marketing qualified lead (MQL) is a lead whose engagement or fit indicates readiness for further nurturing or sales follow-up, according to criteria marketing and sales agree on. Criteria often combine firmographic fit with behaviors such as content downloads or repeat visits. MQLs help teams prioritize contacts and track marketing's contribution to the sales funnel.