Professionals often react negatively when they hear the term “business development” (BD). Their reasons vary – some claim they lack the time for such activities, others believe they lack the know-how, and then there are those who dread socializing with strangers due to their introverted nature, which triggers anxiety.
These initial thoughts and feelings, however, set them up for failure. In reality, feelings and beliefs do not dictate your thoughts; it’s the reverse – your thoughts shape your feelings and actions. Your mindset is crucial!
Your Thoughts Shape Your BD Success
Psychotherapist and bestselling author Amy Morin emphasizes that:
“Your thoughts are a catalyst for self-perpetuating cycles. What you think directly influences how you feel and how you behave, so if you think you’re a failure, you’ll feel like a failure. Then, you’ll act like a failure, which reinforces your belief that you must be a failure.”
But how does this relate to business development efforts?
If you approach BD with a mindset focused on lack of time or anxiety, it will indeed feel overwhelming, and your interactions with potential clients are less likely to succeed.
To make BD more productive, you need to embrace a growth mindset.
Below are a few tips on how to do this.
Embrace a Growth Mindset for Business Development
- Believe BD Equals More Business
Start by telling yourself that business development means more than just extra work. It can lead to more clients, financial security, or opportunities for advancement – whatever motivates you.
This shift replaces the belief that BD consumes too much time with a more open and proactive approach. Prospective clients notice the difference.
Attending networking events with a positive attitude attracts more interest and potential clients.
- Adopt a Positive Approach
Many professionals think they’re only good at their specific niche work, convinced they lack BD skills. Yet, they often engage in BD activities without realizing it, such as networking over lunch or drinks.
BD isn’t complex; it’s about building relationships.
Shift your mindset from believing you’re incapable of BD to recognizing your ability to build connections and strike up conversations.
Repeatedly affirm these beliefs to rewire your brain to accept them as reality.
- You Won’t Know Until You Try
Introverts often claim they’re not outgoing enough for BD. This is merely an excuse.
There are various BD options beyond traditional networking events, such as:
- One-on-one lunches
- Video or phone calls
- Connecting on LinkedIn
- Seeking introductions through your network
These strategies may seem salesy, but they are common and effective ways to establish valuable business relationships.
Embrace a mindset of trying and learning – you won’t know your BD potential until you attempt different approaches.
Build Your Confidence and Move Forward
Shifting your mindset towards confidence in your BD skills can open doors to new opportunities.
You can start this mental exercise today. If you find it challenging to change your self-perception, consider hiring a business development coach who can guide you through the process and hold you accountable.
Change isn’t easy, but it often leads to better outcomes.
Now is the time to work on shifting your mindset and enhancing your business development efforts. If you’re looking for business development coaching or assistance, reach out to Rebecca Wenglinski at rebecca@lotusbizgrowth.com.