How You Can Earn a Great Promotion: BDR to Account Executive

The BDR to Account Executive pipeline is common. It's a logical career move to make in terms of role and skillset, not to mention salary.

Here’s the thing about Business Development Reps (BDRs): they are the lifeblood of a company. They are responsible for generating new leads and building relationships. They keep the sales pipeline moving. In short: they are indispensable.

But what about when a BDR is ready for the next step in their career? What does it take to get promoted from BDR to Account Executive (AE)?

Read on to learn 5 ways you can take your career to the next level... From BDR to Account Executive.

1. Make your quota

The first step to getting promoted from BDR to Account Executive? Making your numbers. And not only meeting your quota, but exceeding it. Go above and beyond by putting in the extra work to get new leads and close deals.

Your manager will take notice of your go-getter attitude. They'll be more likely to give you the green light when a position opens up.

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2. Focus on relationship-building

As a BDR, you’re already good at building relationships. After all, it’s part of your job description. But if you want a promotion to AE, you need to learn the art of relationship-building. Start by taking the time to get to know your prospects and their business needs.

Then, build a rapport. Share relevant articles. Send personal notes. Connect them with other people in your network. Bottom line: The better your relationships, the better your chance of getting promoted.

Need Help? Uvaro's Communications Foundations Workshop is just the thing for you!

3. Become a product expert

Want to secure a promotion from BDR to Account Executive? You need to be a product expert: Someone who knows everything there is to know about the company’s offerings. If you’re not already up-to-speed on the latest and greatest features of your products, now’s the time.

This will make you more valuable as an employee. It will also give you a leg up on the competition when it comes time to promote someone into an AE role.

4. Be fearless

It’s what separates the top performers from everyone else. You need to show that you have what it takes to succeed in a competitive environment. That starts with perseverance. So go after that big deal with gusto and don’t back down from a challenge.

This can-do attitude will help you stand out from your peers. It will also prove that you have the chops to succeed in an AE role.

NEED HELP? A Career coach is there to help you thrive! Learn how they can help you become fearless in your career!

5. Keep a growth mindset

No one is perfect. We all have room for improvement. So if your boss gives you feedback, take it in stride and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow as an employee. And as a person! Regardless of level within a company, an employee that is willing to learn from their mistakes? Invaluable. 

By keeping a growth mindset, you will find yourself looking forward to the lessons that come from feedback. By focusing on your career goals, you will learn that each piece of feedback is a drop in the pond.

Want to get promoted from BDR to Account Executive?

If nothing else, remember to…

• Make your quota... and then some
• Learn the art of relationship building
• Product knowledge is vital
• Show perseverance
• Be open to feedback

You'll be well on your way to impressing your boss and landing that promotion.

And if you need some help navigating this time of exciting growth? Uvaro's got your back! Become a member and book 1:1 sessions with a Career Coach. Learn how we can help you take your next career step by downloading our Career Success Catalog.

Uvaro specializes in helping our members make the jump from BDR to AE. If you're struggling or need a hand to ensure success, we'd love to help!