The role of a business development leader is challenging and vital. These professionals foster growth, steer companies toward new opportunities and forge valuable partnerships. As the business landscape evolves, so too do the expectations placed upon these leaders and also on their teams.
Below, 20 Forbes Business Development Council members share the habits they wish more of their employees would cultivate. From the art of proactive networking to the discipline of strategic thinking, these habits not only enhance individual prowess but also foster a cohesive and forward-thinking team culture.
1. Go Above And Beyond
Do more than what’s asked. It can be challenging to separate yourself from the competition when it comes to successful business development. Doing more than what’s asked from coworkers, clients and prospects will immediately separate you from the pack and make you invaluable. Next time you’re crafting a response, think to yourself, “What’s one more thing I could add that this person might need?” – Daniel Biagini, American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company
2. Foster Trust With Managing Up
At any stage of one’s career, managing up is a skill that can benefit all employees. Managing up is a way for employees to foster better relationships and increase trust with managers, which then supports short-term success for the team and long-term career advancement. While developing these skills can take time, the benefits managing up can bring are worth the effort for employees to develop. – Javier Molina, Starburst
3. Develop A Sense Of Situational Awareness
To develop situational awareness. Too much of the work culture in the U.S. is framed around tasks, punch lists and blanket statements and approaches. Being so general and robotic in how we do our work—but more importantly in how we deal with others—is what causes poor consumer experiences,
