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How do you become a business development manager in the UK?

There is no single route into a career in business development. As a graduate, you might be able to apply for a graduate scheme in business development. Alternatively, you might work in a related field undertaking similar work, allowing you to move into this role.

What qualifications are needed to become a business development manager?

While there are no specific qualification requirements, many business development managers progress into the role from related areas such as sales, account management or marketing.

Larger organisations may recruit through graduate schemes, and degrees with a business focus such as business studies, finance and marketing would be particularly relevant. However, if you have a degree in a different field, such as law, healthcare or education, this could open opportunities in those sectors.

What skills do business development managers need?

Certain core skills are essential in this role:

• Excellent interpersonal skills to engage with customers
• Confidence and ability to persuade as you’ll be contacting potential leads directly
• Excellent communication skills to pitch your proposals in a clear and engaging way
• Business acumen, commercial awareness and interest in developing businesses.

In addition to these core skills, a range of others may be needed including:

• Teamworking when working collectively within a larger organisation
• Excellent written communication skills
• Negotiation skills and the ability to make sound business decisions.

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