Are you looking for a job in business development? Job interviews are tough. You need to get ready for anything and everything that the hiring manager may ask.
This article can help you! You will find the top 50 interview questions asked by employers for business development executive positions.
You can use these questions to practise and prepare for your next interview. You will feel more confident when you know what to expect. Read on to learn more.
Business Development Executive General/Introductory Interview Questions
At the start of the interview, you will likely hear common questions about your background and career goals.
1) What is your understanding of the role of a Business Development Executive?
As a Business Development Executive, my primary responsibilities would involve identifying new business opportunities, building and maintaining strategic partnerships, and driving revenue growth for the organisation. This requires a combination of market research, relationship-building, and data-driven decision making to effectively expand the company’s customer base and market presence.
2) Can you describe your relevant experience in business development?
I have [X] years of experience in business development roles, where I have successfully [key achievements, e.g., secured major client contracts, expanded into new markets, negotiated strategic partnerships]. In my previous role at [company name], I was responsible for [key responsibilities, e.g., prospecting, qualifying leads, presenting solutions, closing deals]. This has equipped me with a strong understanding of the sales cycle and the ability to effectively communicate the value proposition to potential clients.
3) How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies?
Staying informed about industry trends and technological advancements is crucial for a Business Development Executive. I make it a priority to regularly read industry publications, attend relevant conferences and webinars, and network with peers to gather insights. I also closely follow our competitors and monitor customer feedback to identify areas for improvement or new opportunities. This allows me to provide valuable input and recommendations to the leadership team.
4) Can you share an example of how you have used data analysis to inform your business development strategy?
In my previous role, I conducted a comprehensive analysis of our customer data, including purchase history, demographics, and pain points. This allowed me to identify a segment of customers who were underserved by our current offerings. I then used this data to develop a targeted marketing campaign and tailored product solutions, which resulted in a [X]% increase in sales from that customer segment over the following [X] months.
5) How do you approach building and maintaining relationships with clients and partners?
Building and nurturing strong relationships is a critical aspect of the Business Development Executive role. I believe in taking a proactive and personalised approach to client engagement. This includes regularly scheduled check-ins, understanding their evolving needs, and providing value-added insights and solutions. I also make it a point to attend industry events and actively participate in professional networks to expand my reach and identify new partnership opportunities.
6) Can you describe a successful business development initiative you have led in the past?
In my previous role, I spearheaded a business development initiative to expand our presence in the [industry/market] sector. This involved conducting thorough market research, identifying key decision-makers, and crafting a compelling value proposition. I then leveraged my networking skills to secure introductory meetings, which ultimately led to a [X]% increase in revenue from this target market over the course of [X] months.
7) How do you measure the success of your business development efforts?
I believe in a data-driven approach to measuring the success of business development initiatives. Some of the key metrics I focus on include lead generation and conversion rates, customer acquisition costs, revenue growth, and client retention. I also closely monitor the pipeline of opportunities and the progress of ongoing deals to ensure that I am effectively allocating my time and resources. Regularly reviewing these metrics allows me to identify areas for improvement and refine my strategies accordingly.
8) What motivates you in your work as a Business Development Executive?
I am driven by the challenge of identifying and capitalising on new business opportunities. I find great satisfaction in developing innovative solutions, building strong client relationships, and contributing to the overall growth and success of the organisation. Seeing the direct impact of my efforts on the company’s bottom line is incredibly motivating, and I am always eager to take on new projects and challenges that push me to expand my skills and expertise.
9) Can you introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in this Business Development Executive role?
I am a [X]-year experienced Business Development Executive with a proven track record of driving revenue growth and expanding market share for [industry/company name]. I am passionate about identifying new business opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and delivering solutions that create value for clients.
I am particularly interested in this role at [company name] because I am aligned with your [company’s mission/values/products/services], and I believe my skills and experience would be a strong fit to help achieve your business development goals. I am excited about the prospect of leveraging my expertise to contribute to the continued success and growth of your organisation.
10) How do you handle setbacks or challenges in your work as a Business Development Executive?
As a Business Development Executive, I understand that setbacks and challenges are an inevitable part of the job. When faced with a challenge, I take a proactive and solution-oriented approach. First, I carefully analyse the root cause of the issue to understand the underlying factors. I then develop a plan of action, drawing upon my problem-solving skills and industry knowledge to identify potential solutions.
Throughout the process, I maintain open communication with the relevant stakeholders, keeping them informed of the progress and seeking their input as needed. I also remain adaptable and agile, as I recognize that the business landscape is constantly evolving, and I may need to adjust my strategies accordingly. Ultimately, my goal is to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and improvement, both for myself and the organisation.
Now that we’ve discussed common questions, let’s explore how to showcase your experience and skills.
Business Development Executive Experience and Skills-Based Questions
Interviewers will ask about your past work to see if your experience matches their needs. Be ready to talk about your successes and how you use your skills.
1) How do you stay updated on industry trends and technologies?
Staying up-to-date on industry trends and technologies is crucial for a business development executive. I utilise a variety of methods to keep myself informed, including:
- Regularly reading industry publications and blogs
- Attending relevant conferences and networking events
- Participating in online forums and communities
- Connecting with peers and industry experts on LinkedIn
- Subscribing to newsletters and email updates from industry leaders
2) What tools and software do you use to manage your sales pipeline and client relationships?
As a business development executive, I am proficient in using a range of tools and software to effectively manage my sales pipeline and client relationships. Some of the key tools I use include:
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, such as Salesforce or HubSpot, to track leads, manage opportunities, and maintain detailed client records
- Prospecting and lead generation tools, like LinkedIn Sales Navigator or Zoominfo, to identify and research potential clients
- Presentation and proposal creation tools, such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides, to create compelling sales materials
- Project management and collaboration tools, like Asana or Trello, to coordinate with cross-functional teams and ensure timely delivery of client projects
3) How do you approach building and maintaining relationships with potential clients?
Building and maintaining strong relationships with potential clients is a critical aspect of my role as a business development executive. I take a proactive and personalised approach, which includes:
- Actively listening to understand the client’s needs, challenges, and goals
- Providing valuable insights and recommendations tailored to the client’s specific situation
- Regularly following up and staying in touch, even during periods of inactivity
- Attending industry events and networking opportunities to connect with new prospects
- Offering exceptional customer service and being responsive to the client’s inquiries and concerns
4) Can you describe a time when you had to overcome a challenging sales objection or negotiation?
In one particular situation, I was negotiating a contract with a potential client who was hesitant about our pricing. They felt our services were too expensive compared to our competitors. To overcome this objection, I:
- Thoroughly researched the client’s industry and their competitors to understand the market landscape better.
- Prepared a detailed cost breakdown to justify our pricing and highlight the value we could provide.
- Emphasised our unique capabilities and the tangible benefits the client would receive by working with us.
- Offering creative solutions, such as a phased implementation or a trial period, to address the client’s budget concerns.
- Remained flexible and collaborative throughout the negotiation process, ultimately reaching an agreement that satisfied both parties.
5) How do you measure and track the success of your business development efforts?
As a business development executive, I closely monitor and measure the success of my efforts using a variety of key performance indicators (KPIs), including:
- Number of new leads generated and qualified
- Conversion rate from leads to opportunities
- Win rate on proposals and contracts
- Revenue generated from new business
- Customer retention and repeat business
- Return on investment (ROI) for marketing and sales activities
I regularly review these metrics, analyse trends, and use the insights to refine my strategies and tactics to drive continuous improvement in my business development performance.
6) Can you provide an example of a successful business development initiative you led?
In my previous role, I spearheaded a targeted outreach campaign to expand our presence in the healthcare industry. The key steps I took were:
- Conducted in-depth market research to identify the most promising healthcare organisations and decision-makers.
- Developed a tailored value proposition and sales pitch highlighting our industry-specific expertise and solutions.
- Leveraged my professional network and LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and secure introductory meetings.
- Collaborated closely with our marketing team to create compelling content and collateral to support the sales process.
- Persistently followed up and nurtured the relationships, ultimately securing [X] new clients in the healthcare sector within [X] months.
This initiative resulted in a [X]% increase in revenue from the healthcare industry and strengthened our position as a trusted partner in the market.
7) How do you approach setting and achieving your sales targets?
As a business development executive, I take a proactive and data-driven approach to setting and achieving my sales targets. I begin by thoroughly analysing historical sales data, market trends, and the company’s growth objectives to establish realistic and achievable goals.
I then develop a comprehensive sales strategy that includes:
- Identifying and prioritising the most promising market segments and target accounts
- Crafting tailored value propositions and sales pitches for each prospect
- Implementing a structured lead generation and nurturing process
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as marketing and product, to support the sales efforts
- Regularly monitoring my pipeline, forecasting, and adjusting my tactics as needed
Throughout the sales cycle, I closely track my progress against the targets and make data-driven decisions to optimise my approach. I also actively seek feedback from my manager and peers to identify areas for improvement and professional development.
8) Can you describe a time when you had to collaborate with other departments to achieve a business development goal?
In my previous role, I worked closely with the marketing and product teams to launch a new service offering in the financial services industry. The key steps involved in this cross-functional collaboration were:
- Aligning with the marketing team to develop a comprehensive go-to-market strategy, including targeted messaging, content creation, and promotional activities.
- Collaborating with the product team to ensure I had a deep understanding of the new service’s features, benefits, and competitive advantages.
- Coordinating with the implementation and customer success teams to streamline the onboarding process and provide a seamless experience for new clients.
- Regularly sharing feedback and insights from my interactions with prospects and clients to help inform the ongoing product development and refinement.
- Jointly tracking the performance of the new service offering and making adjustments to our strategy as needed to drive optimal results.
This cross-functional approach allowed us to effectively launch the new service, secure [X] new clients within the first [X] months, and lay the foundation for long-term growth in the financial services sector.
9) How do you stay motivated and maintain a positive attitude in the face of rejection or setbacks?
As a business development executive, I understand that rejection and setbacks are a natural part of the job. However, I have developed strategies to stay motivated and maintain a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity:
- I focus on the aspects of my role that I find most rewarding, such as building relationships with clients, solving their challenges, and contributing to the company’s growth.
- I celebrate small wins and milestones, as they help me maintain a sense of progress and accomplishment.
- I seek feedback and coaching from my manager and peers to identify areas for improvement and develop new skills.
- I engage in regular self-reflection to understand the lessons learned from unsuccessful attempts and apply them to future opportunities.
- I maintain a healthy work-life balance, which allows me to recharge and approach each day with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
By adopting this mindset, I am able to stay resilient, adaptable, and committed to achieving my business development goals, even in the face of rejection or setbacks.
10) Can you provide an example of a time when you had to think creatively to solve a client’s problem?
In one instance, I was working with a client in the retail industry who was struggling to increase their online sales. After carefully listening to their challenges, I proposed a creative solution that involved:
- Conducting a comprehensive analysis of their website’s user experience and identifying areas for improvement, such as streamlining the checkout process and enhancing product recommendations.
- Collaborating with the client’s marketing team to develop a series of targeted email campaigns and social media promotions to drive more traffic to the website.
- Integrating a new customer relationship management (CRM) system to better track and nurture leads, as well as provide personalised recommendations to online shoppers.
- Implementing a data-driven approach to continuously test and optimise the website’s performance, using tools like A/B testing and heat mapping.
By taking this multifaceted and innovative approach, we were able to increase the client’s online sales by [X]% within the first [X] months. The client was impressed with my ability to think outside the box and provide a tailored solution that addressed their specific challenges.
11) How do you handle difficult or demanding clients?
When dealing with difficult or demanding clients, I rely on my strong communication and problem-solving skills to navigate the situation effectively. My approach typically involves:
- Actively listening to understand the client’s concerns and frustrations, and acknowledging their perspective.
- Asking clarifying questions to ensure I have a clear understanding of the issue at hand.
- Proposing reasonable solutions or alternatives that address the client’s needs while aligning with the company’s policies and capabilities.
- Maintaining a calm and professional demeanour, even in the face of a client’s heightened emotions or unreasonable requests.
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as customer service or project management, to ensure a coordinated and consistent response to the client.
- Documenting the interactions and any agreed-upon resolutions to ensure clear communication and accountability.
By taking this approach, I am able to de-escalate tense situations, find mutually acceptable solutions, and strengthen the client relationship in the long run.
12) Can you share an example of a time when you had to adapt your sales approach to meet the needs of a specific client or industry?
In my previous role, I worked with a client in the healthcare industry who had very specific requirements and decision-making processes. To effectively navigate this environment, I had to adapt my sales approach in the following ways:
- Conducted in-depth research to understand the unique regulatory and compliance considerations within the healthcare sector.
- Tailored my value proposition and sales pitch to highlight how our solutions could address the client’s specific pain points, such as data security, patient privacy, and workflow efficiency.
- Adjusted my communication style to be more formal and technical, as the client’s decision-makers were primarily clinicians and IT professionals.
- Collaborated closely with the client’s procurement and legal teams to navigate the complex contracting and approval processes.
- Demonstrated a deep understanding of the client’s industry and their competitive landscape, which helped build trust and credibility.
- Maintained a patient and persistent approach, as the sales cycle was significantly longer than in other industries I had worked with.
By adapting my sales approach to the specific needs of the healthcare client, I was able to successfully secure a [X]-year contract worth [X] in revenue. This experience has equipped me with the flexibility and industry-specific expertise to effectively engage with clients across various sectors.
13) How do you stay up-to-date on industry trends and competitive intelligence?
As a business development executive, it is crucial for me to stay informed about the latest industry trends, market changes, and competitive landscape. I employ a multi-pronged approach to gather this intelligence:
- Regularly reading industry publications, blogs, and news articles to identify emerging trends, technologies, and market shifts.
- Attending relevant conferences, webinars, and networking events to connect with industry peers and gain first-hand insights.
- Conducting thorough research on our competitors, including their product offerings, pricing, marketing strategies, and customer feedback.
- Actively engaging with my company’s marketing, product, and customer success teams to stay informed about internal initiatives and customer feedback.
- Leveraging tools like market research reports, industry databases, and competitive intelligence platforms to gather comprehensive data and analysis.
- Maintaining a robust professional network, both within and outside my industry, to exchange knowledge and insights.
By consistently staying up-to-date on industry developments and competitive intelligence, I am able to identify new business opportunities, tailor my sales strategies, and provide valuable insights to my clients and internal stakeholders.
14) Can you describe a time when you had to collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve a business development goal?
In my previous role, I worked closely with the marketing and product teams to launch a new software solution for the financial services industry. The key steps involved in this cross-functional collaboration were:
- Aligning with the marketing team to develop a comprehensive go-to-market strategy, including targeted messaging, content creation, and promotional activities.
- Collaborating with the product team to ensure I had a deep understanding of the new software’s features, benefits, and competitive advantages.
- Coordinating with the implementation and customer success teams to streamline the onboarding process and provide a seamless experience for new clients.
- Regularly sharing feedback and insights from my interactions with prospects and clients to help inform the ongoing product development and refinement.
- Jointly tracking the performance of the new software offering and making adjustments to our strategy as needed to drive optimal results.
This cross-functional approach allowed us to effectively launch the new solution, secure [X] new clients within the first [X] months, and lay the foundation for long-term growth in the financial services sector.
15) How do you measure the success of your business development efforts?
As a business development executive, I closely monitor and measure the success of my efforts using a variety of key performance indicators (KPIs), including:
- Number of new leads generated and qualified
- Conversion rate from leads to opportunities
- Win rate on proposals and contracts
- Revenue generated from new business
- Customer retention and repeat business
- Return on investment (ROI) for marketing and sales activities
I regularly review these metrics, analyse trends, and use the insights to refine my strategies and tactics to drive continuous improvement in my business development performance. This data-driven approach allows me to make informed decisions, allocate resources effectively, and demonstrate the tangible impact of my efforts to internal stakeholders.
Additionally, I seek feedback from my clients and cross-functional teams to gain a more holistic understanding of the effectiveness of my business development initiatives. By combining quantitative and qualitative measures, I am able to continuously enhance my skills and deliver optimal results for the organisation.
In addition to your experience, be prepared to answer questions about the industry and the specific company.
Business Development Executive Industry and Company-Specific Interview Questions
Companies want to hire people who understand their industry and how their business works. This section helps you get ready to answer these types of questions.
1) What interests you about our company’s products or services?
This question checks if you match the company’s mission. Your response should show genuine excitement for what the company does.
Example answer: “Your new software is the kind of tool I wish I had in my last job. It solves a real problem for people like me.”
2) How do our company values align with your own?
Companies want people who fit their culture. Read up on the company’s values and explain how they resonate with you.
Example answer: “I’m big on teamwork, and I see that’s important here too. Your projects look like they need a lot of collaboration, which I enjoy.”
3) What recent news or developments about our company caught your attention?
This shows you keep up with the industry. Mention a news article you read or a product launch you followed.
Example answer: “I read about your partnership with X company. It’s a smart move that opens up a new market for you.”
4) How would you describe our company’s target audience?
This tests your understanding of who the company sells to. Describe their needs, pain points, and demographics.
Example answer: “Your ideal customers are small businesses who need help with marketing. They’re short on time and budget but want to grow.”
5) What are the biggest challenges our industry faces right now?
This shows you think strategically about the market. Mention trends, regulations, or competitors that the company needs to watch out for.
Example answer: “Online privacy is a big concern for everyone. Companies need to build trust with customers while still using data effectively.”
6) Who are our main competitors? What sets us apart from them?
This tests your knowledge of the competitive landscape. Research the main players and highlight the company’s strengths.
Example answer: “Company X offers similar services, but you have a better reputation for customer support. That’s what makes people choose you.”
7) How do you stay updated on industry trends and news?
This shows your commitment to learning and staying ahead of the curve. Mention blogs, podcasts, or events you follow.
Example answer: “I subscribe to the Industry Newsletter and attend the annual conference. It’s a great way to network and learn from experts.”
8) What are your thoughts on our recent marketing campaigns?
This tests your marketing savvy and your eye for detail. Give specific feedback on what you liked or what could be improved.
Example answer: “The social media campaign was eye-catching, but the website could use clearer calls to action. It’s not always obvious what the next step is.”
9) What do you think is the most important factor for success in our industry?
This shows your understanding of what drives results in the business. Your answer should align with the company’s priorities.
Example answer: “Building strong relationships with clients is key. It’s a competitive market, so trust and loyalty are what keep customers coming back.”
10) What are your salary expectations for this role?
This question helps recruiters determine if your expectations are in line with their budget. Research salary ranges for similar positions in your area and be prepared to discuss your desired compensation.
Example answer: “Based on my research and experience, I’m looking for a salary range of X to Y. I’m also open to discussing other forms of compensation like bonuses or stock options.”
Along with showing your knowledge, you will also get questions to see how you act in different situations.
Business Development Executive Behavioral and Situational Interview Questions
These questions help the interviewer see how you would act in certain situations at work. They want to know about your problem-solving skills and how you handle challenges.
1) Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult client.
Purpose: This question helps recruiters see how the candidate stays calm and finds solutions when things get tough.
Answer Tips: The candidate should share a story about a specific client, the problem, and how they fixed it. They should focus on what they did and what they learned.
2) How did you handle a situation where a deal fell through?
Purpose: This question shows how the candidate handles setbacks and learns from their mistakes.
Answer Tips: The candidate should talk about a real deal that didn’t work out. They should explain what they learned from the experience and how they grew from it.
3) Describe a time you had to work under pressure.
Purpose: This question helps recruiters see how the candidate performs when there are deadlines or tight timelines.
Answer Tips: The candidate should share a story about a time they had to meet a goal quickly. They should focus on how they organised their work, stayed focused, and got the job done.
4) Give me an example of a time you went above and beyond for a client.
Purpose: This question shows how much the candidate cares about client satisfaction and how they go the extra mile.
Answer Tips: The candidate should give a real example of when they did more than what was expected of them. They should explain why they did it and how it helped the client.
5) How would you handle a prospect who is not interested in your product?
Purpose: This question tests the candidate’s ability to think on their feet and handle objections.
Answer Tips: The candidate should explain how they would listen to the prospect’s concerns, address them, and try to find a way to make the product relevant to their needs.
6) What would you do if you were struggling to meet your sales targets?
Purpose: This question shows how the candidate takes ownership of their work and finds ways to improve.
Answer Tips: The candidate should explain how they would analyse their performance, identify areas for improvement, and create a plan to reach their goals.
7) How would you approach a new market that you are unfamiliar with?
Purpose: This question tests the candidate’s ability to research, learn, and adapt to new situations.
Answer Tips: The candidate should explain how they would conduct market research, identify key players, and develop a strategy to enter the market.
8) Describe a time when you had to resolve a conflict between two team members.
Purpose: This question shows how the candidate handles interpersonal challenges and fosters collaboration.
Answer Tips: The candidate should share a story about a specific conflict they resolved. They should explain how they facilitated communication, found common ground, and helped the team move forward.
9) What would you do if a client was unhappy with your service?
Purpose: This question tests the candidate’s ability to take responsibility, apologise, and make things right.
Answer Tips: The candidate should explain how they would listen to the client’s concerns, apologise for the inconvenience, and offer a solution to address the problem.
10) Tell me about a time you had to make a difficult decision that impacted your team or clients.
Purpose: This question shows how the candidate weighs options, considers different perspectives, and makes tough choices.
Answer Tips: The candidate should share a story about a specific decision they had to make. They should explain how they gathered information, considered the pros and cons, and ultimately made a decision that they believed was best for everyone involved.
Finally, don’t forget that an interview is a chance for you to ask questions too!
Business Development Executive Questions to Ask the Interviewer
Asking thoughtful questions shows you are interested in the job and the company. This section gives you ideas for questions to ask.
1) “What does a typical day look like for someone in this role?”
Why ask this? This question helps you see if the job fits your work style. Some business development roles are very independent, while others require lots of teamwork. You’ll also learn about the daily tasks you might be doing.
What to listen for: Specific examples of daily tasks (emails, calls, meetings), who you’ll work with the most, and any tools or software you’ll use.
2) “How does the company measure success for this position?”
Why ask this? You need to know how they’ll judge your performance. Is it about making lots of sales, bringing in new clients, or something else?
What to listen for: Clear goals or metrics (like a certain number of sales per month), how often you’ll get feedback, and any special rewards for good work.
3) “What are the biggest challenges someone in this role faces?”
Why ask this? This question shows you’re ready for the tough stuff. Every job has its challenges, and knowing them upfront helps you prepare.
What to listen for: Be honest about what they say. Are the challenges things you can handle? Does the company offer support to help you through them?
4) “How does the company help employees grow and learn new skills?”
Why ask this? You want to know if the company invests in its people. Good companies offer training, mentoring, or chances to work on different projects.
What to listen for: Specific training programs, if there are mentors, or if employees can move to other roles within the company.
5) “What’s something you enjoy about working here?”
Why ask this? This is a chance to get a feel for the company culture from the interviewer’s point of view.
What to listen for: How enthusiastic they are, if they can give specific examples, and if the things they enjoy sound like things you would enjoy too.
Bonus Tip: Always prepare a few questions of your own, based on the job description or anything you learn during the interview. This shows you’re interested and have been paying attention.
Conclusion
Ace your next business development executive interview! Preparation is key, and now you have 50 top questions to guide your practice. These questions cover your skills, experience, and goals, giving you a clear picture of what to expect.
Want to boost your confidence? Try iScalePro, a free mock interview platform. Practise your answers and feel ready to impress. With the right tools, you can land that dream job. Your success starts here!
Business Development Executive Interview FAQs
1) What is a business development executive interview question?
A business development executive interview question is a question that is asked to a person who is applying for a business development executive job. These questions can be about the person’s experience, skills, or knowledge.
2) What is a BDE in simple terms?
A business development executive (BDE) is a person who helps a company to grow its business. They do this by finding new customers and building relationships with them.
3) How do you introduce yourself in an interview for a business development executive?
Here is a sample introduction for a business development executive interview:
“Hello, my name is [Your Name]. I have [Number] years of experience in business development. I have worked at [Company Name] and [Company Name]. In my last job, I was responsible for [Responsibilities]. I am a skilled [Skills]. I am passionate about helping businesses grow. I am excited to learn more about this opportunity.”
4) Why do you prefer the BDE role?
Here are some reasons why people prefer the business development executive role:
- Opportunity to help businesses grow: BDEs have the opportunity to make a real difference in the success of a company.
- Chance to meet new people: BDEs meet new people every day. This can be a rewarding experience.
- Ability to work independently: BDEs have a lot of autonomy in their work. This can be a great benefit.
- Potential for high earnings: BDEs can earn a good salary, especially if they are successful.