Want to thrive? Make business your business
HELPING all kinds of businesses to develop can be a good way of building your own career.
Last year, Lydia Abbiss, 22, started as front-of-house manager at Stonebridge Offices in Leeds, which offers serviced office space.
It helped Lydia get into working with Stonebridge’s business development team.
She says: ‘I’ve always been interested in business, but it can be difficult to know which route to take if you are planning a business development career.
‘Here, my job gives me an insight into a huge range of companies.’
Business development managers are senior sales people who help firms grow by finding new customers and persuading existing ones to buy extra services.
To get into that role, you usually need a good standard of education including maths, English and IT qualifications, as well as communication skills. You should also be able to meet deadlines and understand business operations.
Experience in sales or marketing is a plus that will boost your CV. Some employers look for a degree, but it might be possible to start in a junior role and work your way up.
Dave Sunter, business development manager at Stonebridge Offices, says: ‘Working with a diverse mix of companies has given Lydia the insight she needs to progress in her career. Dealing with different characters daily and understanding the financial needs of a company can be a smart idea for a young person looking to succeed in business development.’
Pay in business development management jobs starts at £25,000 and can reach £60,000-plus for senior managers.