Business Development Strategies and How to Implement Them

What Is Business Development Strategy July 28, 2020

Dakota Sheetz

Writer

Introduction

Many business owners, in the throes of their often-challenging daily operations, will ask the question- what is a business development strategy?

After looking for solutions to their problems, they may have heard business development strategies being spoken about a lot. Could it be time to find out what it is and whether it can help? Read on to learn not only what business development strategies are, but how to implement them.

What is Business Development Strategy?

A business development strategy is something that often gets confused with a sales strategy. And, sure, there are some similarities between the two. In fact, sales are a core part of what a development strategy for your business could be.
However, there's more to it than that. To give it a simple definition, it's the steps you take to identify, attract, and gain new business. The result? Improved revenue and growth.
Unlike a sales strategy on its own, a business development strategy includes functions inside various departments. Given that every business is different, it's adaptable to suit yours.
You can also view such a strategy in a marketing funnel. The wide end of the funnel is where you attract prospects. The middle section is for building engagement. The narrow end is where you turn opportunities into clients.
Why can't I just go with the flow?

Sure, you could fly by the seat of your pants in your business, but there's a high chance that won't work. One of the most common reasons for SME failures is ineffective planning. Focus on a strategy and set yourself up for long-term success. If you find yourself asking what business development strategies are all about, then it's clear you aren't happy with not having a plan.

What are the Benefits of Effective Business Development Strategies?

Many business owners and managers don't believe that having business development strategies applies to them. But it's only for large companies, they say. That couldn't be further from the truth. In reality, all businesses of all sizes should have a plan. The best part is, once you have one, some surprising benefits surface.
They Minimise Risk
Everyone who establishes a business wants to see it succeed. What they may not realize is whether or not it does can be in your control. As part of your strategic business plan, you can assess where you are now, where you hope to be in the future, and what strengths and weaknesses are present in your business model.
If you look at your business with a critical eye, you can develop strategies to combat every possible challenge you might face. Do the work, reap the rewards.
They Can Promote Workplace Happiness
According to The Conference Board, over half of American employees are not happy. While you can't hope to change that with a business development strategy, you may be surprised to learn that having one can change your workplace dynamic.
SMEs, in particular, may like to include their employees in the developing phase. Contribution from your team can promote a sense of camaraderie and ownership and help you achieve your goals.
They Provide a Clear Path
There are many things in life you can't plan. Unexpected car repairs, natural disasters, and illnesses all fall outside our control. But with an effective business development strategy, you have a clear path for your business future. As a result, there is plenty you can control.
You can outline long-term goals, envision your business future in five years, and use tactics to solve problems and promote growth.

Examples of Business Development Strategies

You may know you need to start looking at a business development strategy, but that's the easy part. The hardest part is knowing what that looks like.
Referrals

Referrals are a significant part of business growth. You do a good job, and your customer is happy to refer you to other people. This is a passive strategy, but one that's powerful all the same. All it requires you to do is provide a high-quality service. Your customers will take care of the rest.
Networking
Networking is one of the most important business development strategies out there. People often buy services based on relationships. The more connections you form, the wider your reach.
Digital Advertising
If you combine networking and referrals with digital advertising, you've got one stable form of business development. Digital advertising allows you to target your exact audience. Your budget is in your control, and any campaigns you organize can tick away in the background while you carry on with day-to-day activities.

How to Implement Effective Business Development Strategies

Knowing what development strategies are and knowing how to implement them are two different things. However, the sooner you do it, the sooner you can reap the rewards.
Audience Identification
Who is your audience the people you want to buy your products and services? Identifying them early on can mean that you customize your entire business development strategy to that specific group. Everything from the way you sell your products to how you advertise them can all stem from this one, simple step.
Carry Out Market Research
If you want to implement an effective business development strategy, then market research is paramount. Getting to the crux of what's most important in your customers' lives can allow you to align your values with theirs.
Find out what their issues are, what your services can do to help solve those problems, and what methods they are currently using now. The more you know about your customers, the easier it is to find your place in the business world.

Conclusion

Any small, medium or large enterprise can see the value in implementing a business development strategy. The hardest part is customizing it for your unique business type.

Get to know your target market and don't underestimate the value of market research.
Discover the various development strategies, such as networking, advertising, and referrals.
Learn about the benefits of implementing a business development strategy, like minimizing risk and promoting workplace happiness.