The BDCorner: Unlocking the Discipline Discussion

by Keon Jeffrey, MBA

"Life without a Business Developer is soooo Underwhelming!!"

Welcome to my first article on my brand-new blog, ‘The BDCorner.’ I was inspired to start this blog as a way to share the ins and outs, exciting details, and real impact of this incredible discipline, Business Development, short and sweet!

My Journey in Business Development:

For my entire professional career, I’ve always been a business developer, just under different professional umbrellas. I’ve had an entrepreneurial spirit, venturing into my own businesses while working in corporate settings and have always been inspired by the perspectives of key businesses to growth and development .

This discipline, though often misunderstood and undervalued, immediately captured my interest once I realized the true extent of its capabilities and importance in the business world. As I learned more, I started seeing how much of it I was already doing naturally—for myself, for friends, and even for family businesses.

My formal dive into the profession followed the typical progression route: Business Development Representative → Business Development Consultant. Since then, it’s been an exciting, ever-evolving journey where I continue to sharpen my craft every day.

Why This Blog?

This blog is here to:

• Guide those interested in business development

• Correct common misconceptions about the role of Business Developers

• Share practical insights and strategies to help businesses grow

What You’ll Find in ‘The BDCorner’ Blog:

1. Emerging technologies impacting business growth

2. Industry trends and insights

3. Tips for business development professionals

4. Strategies for business expansion

5. Thoughts on entrepreneurship & innovation

6. Real-world business growth case studies

And much more that we’ll explore together!

What is Business Development, really?

The best way to define Business Development (BD) is:

A strategic process that helps businesses (big or small) identify and create new opportunities, build strong relationships, and increase revenue.

BD involves a mix of sales, marketing, relationship management, strategic partnerships, market expansion, and business planning. Depending on the company’s needs, it can also include process improvement, product/service development, and operational efficiency.

Since that sums up the concept of Business Development, let’s talk about the Business Developer.

The Business Developer? Tah Dah!!!

A Business Developer is the person responsible for driving growth by identifying new opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and strengthening client relationships. They shape the company’s future and ensure it stays competitive.

It’s NOT just sales! Many companies misuse the title “Business Developer” when in-fact they actually need a salesperson. But true BD is far more than sales, it’s about strategy.

Key Skills of a Business Developer:

1.  Strong communication & negotiation skills

2. Analytical thinking & problem-solving abilities

3.  Deep understanding of market trends & business operations

4.  Sales & marketing knowledge (a major advantage!)

5. Ability to foster partnerships & collaborations

   
   

A Business Developer is the bridge between where a company is today and where it wants to be tomorrow. That’s why I believe every business—regardless of industry or size—needs Business Development strategies.

Industries that rely on Business Development:

Tech & Software, Staffing & HR, Cybersecurity, Construction, Distribution & Supply Chain, Healthcare & Financial Services, E-commerce & Retail, Government & State Agencies

The Wrap Up!

Business development isn’t just about increasing sales or expanding markets, it’s about creating lasting value, building strategic relationships, and positioning businesses for long-term success.

Through this blog, I’ll be sharing insights, tools, strategies, and real-world examples to help you navigate business growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a startup, or an established company looking to scale……..there’s always room for development.

Let’s keep the conversation going! Comment, like, and share this inaugural article. What are your thoughts on Business Development? What’s been your experience? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!

Keep inspiring. Keep innovating. Keep Business Developing!

We’ll chat in the next one... Later!