what are the 5 skills of a business development manager

A Business Development Manager (BDM) needs a mix of strategic, interpersonal, and analytical skills to drive growth. Here are 5 key skills:

Sales and Negotiation Skills – Ability to identify opportunities, pitch solutions, and close deals effectively.
Relationship Building and Networking – Developing strong connections with clients, partners, and stakeholders to create long-term business opportunities.
Market Research and Analytical Skills – Understanding industry trends, competitor analysis, and identifying growth opportunities.
Strategic Thinking and Planning – Creating and executing business plans that align with company goals and target markets.
Communication and Presentation Skills – Clearly conveying ideas, proposals, and strategies to clients, executives, and teams.

Optional bonus: adaptability and problem-solving are also highly valued in fast-changing markets.