Read the scope of the promise
Exclusive can mean different things across suppliers. Ask who may receive the lead, how long the restriction lasts, and whether it covers previously distributed records. A supplier's resale restriction cannot prevent a merchant from applying elsewhere. Put the definition into the order terms before relying on it.
Check the source and timing
Confirm when the inquiry was submitted, when contact information was verified, and which request the merchant actually made. Source transparency matters as much as exclusivity. A public filing does not become an application or establish outreach permission simply because the delivered record is sold to one buyer.
Prepare your handling process
Deduplicate, assign an owner, and document the next action promptly. Respect suppression lists and applicant communication preferences. If statements or applications are included, use approved secure review channels and restrict access. Exclusivity does not remove identity, permission, or underwriting checks.
Evaluate results with the right records
Retain the delivered record identifier, delivery timestamp, qualification outcome, and replacement correspondence. Compare the pilot's valid contacts and funded outcomes with a comparable source over the same period. Report discrepancies using the agreed process rather than assuming that an unsuccessful sale proves a breach of exclusivity.
