A (unqualified) prospect is someone who has identified themselves to your company as being interested in learning more about your produt or service.  Prospects are sometimes referred to “inquiries.” 

For example, your company might define a (unqualified) prospect as anyone who fills out a entry form for more information on your website or in response to one of your direct mailing efforts.  A (qualified) lead – on the other hand – might be defined as anyone who provided us with the following 5 pieces of information:

• Name, Job Title, Company Name, Website, Telephone Number, Email
• Role in buying process
• Time frame when purchase is expected
• Size of budget available for solution set
• Preferred method of contact – by email or phone and if by phone at what time