The Bottom Line

Here’s the no-BS takeaway: Sales is the engine that keeps the business running today. Business development is the fuel that powers the business forward tomorrow. If you’re in one of these roles, understand what your job really entails and don’t confuse one with the other. They’re both vital, but they play different games.

So, next time someone tries to tell you they’re the best at “business development” but all they’ve done is push a bunch of sales, or vice versa, you’ll know what’s up. Both roles have their place, but they’re not interchangeable.