Targeting
Buying Intent Signals
Observable behaviors or events that indicate a company is actively looking to purchase a solution.
What Are Buying Intent Signals?
Buying intent signals are data points that suggest a company is actively exploring, evaluating, or ready to purchase a solution like yours. These signals separate "might be interested someday" from "is looking right now."
Types of Intent Signals for B2B SaaS & Dev Agencies
Hiring Signals
- Posting job ads for roles your product replaces or supports
- Hiring a VP of Engineering (signals budget allocation)
- Building out a new team (signals expansion)
Funding Signals
- Recent fundraise (Series A-C creates buying power)
- Revenue milestones reported in press
- Expansion into new markets
Technology Signals
- Adopting complementary tools (indicates tech stack maturity)
- Leaving a competitor (contract expiration, dissatisfaction)
- RFP postings or vendor evaluation announcements
Behavioral Signals
- Engaging with your content on LinkedIn
- Visiting your website (if you have tracking)
- Attending relevant industry events
// SIGNAL PRIORITIZATION
tier_1: hiring + funding (highest conversion)
tier_2: technology change (medium conversion)
tier_3: content engagement (lowest but warmest)
Why Signals Matter in Outbound
Without intent signals, outbound is guesswork. You are messaging people who may not need what you sell for another 18 months. Signal-based outbound ensures your message arrives when the prospect is already thinking about the problem you solve.
I monitor intent signals manually for every prospect before outreach begins. This is why my reply rates consistently outperform volume-based agencies by 3-5x.