How are you using your time? Will this investment in a new career achieve your desired outcome?
Leaving USG takes a lot of guts. If you’re going to do it, aim for a role offering the highest rate of return. The best use of. your time is BD.
There will be a pull to other roles. Like policy or security. I was tempted too.
BD seemed almost dirty. Even beneath me.
This was naive.
Sales and BD generate revenue. Customers don’t just buy on their own. They need someone to explain how the product solves their unique problems. Every company needs a competent BD team.
Chances are you’ve already invested a healthy portion of your career in government service. It’s not like you have a ton of time left. Make the most of it.
BD is crucial to the existence of every organization. The better you get at it the more crucial you’ll become to your current organization. They need you to sell.
At work, focus exclusively on value-creating activities. Ensure you are incentivized to do so. There are plenty of distractions, which give the illusion of purpose. Attending meetings. Answering internal emails. Doing other people’s jobs. Avoid these.
If your colleagues and management imply low-value responsibilities compete with high-value ones, this is a good indication you’re in an environment that will struggle to produce consistent wins. Should this happen, it’s an indication somewhere else will be a better environment for your success. Don’t hesitate to start looking.
.As the Russian saying goes - time is money. Make yours count as much as possible.