Not all calls are created equal.
When you’re investing in call leads, every ring matters — but not every call will move the needle. Some are genuine opportunities, while others are costly distractions that eat into your ROI.
Let’s break down three major red flags that can help you identify low-quality calls early and keep your ad spend focused where it counts.
1. The Caller Mentions Google or Craigslist
If the first thing your caller says is, “I found you on Google” or “I saw your ad on Craigslist,” that’s often a sign they’ve dialed the wrong number or are just casually browsing.
These types of calls usually stem from broad or misdirected search ads, and they rarely convert. To minimize them, double-check your ad copy, keywords, and tracking numbers to ensure only the right audience reaches your line.
2. They Mention the Wrong Business Name
If a caller asks for a different company, you’ve just hit another red flag. This often means your call tracking or routing setup is off — or worse, your ads are being shown under unrelated brand searches.
This can happen when:
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Your keywords overlap with competitor names
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Call routing settings are misconfigured
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Lead providers mix sources with low-quality traffic
Always audit your call data weekly to catch and correct these mismatches before they pile up.
3. The Caller Shows Low Intent
Not every conversation is worth pursuing. If the caller seems unsure, vague, or just “shopping around,” it’s a sign of low intent. These calls might inflate your volume metrics but rarely lead to actual sales or booked appointments.
Listen for key intent signals:
✅ Asking for pricing details specific to your service
✅ Confirming service area or availability
✅ Mentioning urgency or a clear next step
Calls missing these cues? Flag them as low quality in your CRM and exclude similar sources moving forward.
The Bottom Line
Every wasted call is wasted spend. By paying attention to these red flags — mentions of Google or Craigslist, wrong business names, and low-intent chatter — you’ll sharpen your call filtering, improve lead quality, and stretch your marketing dollars further.
Don’t just track calls — understand them.
