In any proposal, the project approach is likely the most important section – it is the place you get to tell the client exactly what you are going to do to make their project a success. In order to write a successful strategic approach, you must research and brainstorm and then brainstorm some more. The writing is the easy part!

Do you have rainmaking skills? How about real relationships? Create a downpour of work by building on relationships and expanding your network.

Are you afraid to emerge from your winter hibernation unable to contact new prospects? Don’t be afraid. Get ready to feel confident when preparing to contact new prospects!

At MARKETLINK, we practice the macro to micro approach to business development: Go from high-level to detailed when identifying and implementing business development strategies. And don’t just guess at where you are going, use research to make sure your strategies are on point.

“If you want to conquer fear, don’t sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” – Dale Carnegie

Principal Keri Hammond, FSMPS, CPSM, applies this quote to the fear professionals have about the most crucial industry task, market research.

Every year, I call a variety of my clients’ clients to get their input on what impresses them in project interviews and what doesn't. While the Facilities Director of a Community College District in California declined to be interviewed, he did make me an offer I couldn't refuse. Rather than taking his word for it, he invited me to attend their next interview to experience the process myself. What I learned provided great insight into what works (and what doesn't), when your firm decides to participate in a formal interview process for a potential client job.

It seems intangible among the 47 unread emails and strewn papers on your desk, but it’s a lot of the reason your business exists and keeps going: Networking. Referrals can make up to 80%-90% of new business revenues—so, it’s all about relationships. Just being great at your job isn’t enough. Developing a strong and powerful network is key to maintaining and cultivating new business and clients.