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BGeneralUpdated 2 Nov 2026

Business development

Activities focused on creating long-term value through partnerships and growth.

Definition

Business development is an integral part of any organization's success. It entails the identification of new partners and markets, as well as building strong relationships with them, to create long-term value. Additionally, it also involves exploring existing customer bases for further growth opportunities.

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How the word shows up in a real conversation.

Business development activities concentrate on strengthening revenue & gains by constructing fresh products or services, entering new markets, and nurturing strategic ties.

John has a thriving retail store specialized in outdoor gear and apparel. Despite having no problems with customers or sales, he wants to expand his venture to the next level. Business development and growth would be the best course of action for him to achieve this target.

John dives into market research to identify emerging customer segments. What he discovers is that there is an expanding preference towards environmentally-friendly outdoor gear, so he decides to focus on this niche specifically.

He connected with vendors & manufacturers that make sustainable items and developed relationships with a few of them.

John revamped his store's website and social media accounts to focus on the environment, and ran ads targeting shoppers who prioritize sustainability. He promotes eco-friendly products to draw customers. In addition to these efforts, John attends trade shows and networking events to stay informed on the outdoor industry. He also builds relationships with partners that can help expand his business.

John's efforts in business development have certainly paid off. He has acquired a new, loyal clientele who appreciate his eco-friendly items, causing a surge in demand from other retailers and leading to an increase in sales for his store. With its commitment to sustainable products, John's store has gained immense popularity.

Overall, John's business development efforts helped him to expand his customer base, increase sales, and establish his store as a leader in the eco-friendly outdoor gear market.

Common mistake

Using Business development as a label instead of a fact. If you cannot point to the evidence — a number, a customer, or a written assumption — you are using the word as jargon.

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