A day in the life of a Business Developer and Account Executive at BrightAnalytics

Sales at BrightAnalytics: A closer look

Welcome to our special interview where we delve into the dynamic roles of an Account Executive and a Business Developer at BrightAnalytics. Today, we have Arthur Vandorpe alongside one of our Business developers Arthur Dejonckheere. Let’s explore their experiences, insights, and the unique aspects of working at BrightAnalytics.

How did you end up at BrightAnalytics?

Arthur Dejonckheere: “I studied business economics with a major in marketing. I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do until I received a message from Astrid from HR on LinkedIn. The idea of consultative selling appealed to me, and after a conversation with Jonathan, everything fell into place for me. Now, we’re almost a year down the line.”

Arthur Vandorpe: “My background is in business sciences with a major in entrepreneurship. I have always been interested in sales; for example, I used to sell mopeds in my spare time. Now, I sell professionally. Like Arthur Dejonckheere, I got here after a message from HR at BrightAnalytics.”

What attracted you to this company?

Arthur Vandorpe: “Definitely the growth story! In large corporations, there are often career opportunities, but they are usually predefined. Here you grow with the company as an individual and can create your own opportunities.“

Arthur Dejonckheere: “That’s right. Besides the growth story, the young character of the company and the atmosphere appealed to me. That’s important in a job since you spend most of your time here.”

What does a typical day look like for you guys?

Arthur Vandorpe: “My days primarily revolve around establishing contacts with C-level executives and presenting our product. A significant part of my job is applying consultative selling, where I not only promote our product but also act as an advisor to the client. I ask questions to understand their pain points and see how BrightAnalytics can benefit their organisation. Besides the initial conversations with potential customers, I also spend a lot of time on follow-up meetings and answering their questions.”

Arthur Dejonckheere: “It’s similar for me, but I get in touch with C-level executives a bit earlier in the process. I follow up on leads and look for new companies where BrightAnalytics can provide a suitable solution.”

What skills or qualities are important for this job?

Arthur Vandorpe: “Creativity is crucial for this role. You are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to approach people and convince them of our product’s benefits. Over the years, you also learn how to effectively communicate with C-level executives, which is an important skill. Active listening is vital. You must listen carefully to the problems and challenges they face and show them how our solution can help. Sometimes clients aren’t even aware of their problems, and it’s up to you to show them that we have the solution. Curiosity about complex issues helps you engage in deep conversations and truly understand your customers’ needs.”

Arthur Dejonckheere: “I also believe that assertiveness can help in this job. Being confident and persuasive helps you better understand the wishes and needs of potential customers.”

Why is BrightAnalytics different from other companies?

Arthur Vandorpe: “BrightAnalytics is growing rapidly. When I started three years ago, there were only two sales positions; now, there are many more roles. The company isn’t predefined and can grow a lot in the coming years. We also have the freedom to introduce new ideas and such.”

What motivates you to excel in your sales role?

Arthur Vandorpe: “What really motivates me is the challenge of convincing C-level executives of our story and product. As a young professional, it’s not always easy to persuade more experienced individuals, but when it works, it’s very satisfying. It requires not only persuasiveness but also a deep understanding of the customer’s needs and how our solutions meet them.”

Arthur Dejonckheere: “That’s also true in terms of leads. It’s a continuous process of searching and convincing.”

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Arthur Vandorpe: “I still enjoy the closing process the most. It’s very satisfying when a new party chooses to work with us instead of a competitor. About 40% of the cases are quickly closed, while the remaining 60% sometimes require more meetings and time. Even in these cases, you get satisfaction because you’ve played an important role.”

Arthur Dejonckheere: “As a business developer, I particularly enjoy discovering interesting and suitable companies that could potentially become BrightAnalytics customers. When these companies are open to a conversation with us, I see that as a personal victory.”

Besides the advantages we just discussed, are there any challenges in your job?

Arthur Vandorpe: “Apart from the benefits, there are indeed some challenges that come with working at a young, rapidly growing company. The fast-paced growth often means we are still in the process of finding the best strategies, and not everything is fully established yet.

Did you receive any training/onboarding that helped you succeed in your role and face those challenges?

Arthur Vandorpe: “Yes, very hands-on. Besides a lot of theoretical knowledge you get at the beginning through playbooks and such, this theory is put into practice immediately in the first few weeks.”

Arthur Dejonckheere: “That’s right. Additionally, I have Arthur as my regular sparring partner, who I can turn to for advice on certain cases. He’s been here for three years, so he knows better how to handle certain situations. As a starter, you definitely get good guidance here.”

What would you say to someone who is hesitant about working at BrightAnalytics?

Arthur Dejonckheere: “It’s a company with many young people you can relate to, allowing you to perform better by asking for advice. This not only contributes to the company culture, which is very enjoyable, but also to your personal learning curve.”

Arthur Vandorpe: “Although most of us are young, we’re also guided by experienced profiles. You can learn a lot in a short time and take big steps. Moreover, at BrightAnalytics, you’re not just a number or a grey mouse; everyone knows who you are, and you can really make a difference as an individual.”

If you were to recommend BrightAnalytics to friends or family, what could you emphasis as the main reasons to join?

Arthur Dejonckheere:  “I often tell people around me who are looking for a first job to choose something where they can learn a lot and grow quickly, and that’s definitely the case here!”

Arthur Vandorpe: “Just like Arthur said, the growth story for sure!”

How would you describe the company culture, and how does it make you enjoy your job? 

Arthur Vandorpe: “The company culture is young and dynamic. We’re constantly challenged to do our best and improve, making the work environment very stimulating. We’re all young potentials who want to achieve something.”

Arthur Dejonckheere: “It’s an environment where hard work and results are appreciated. The team spirit is strong, and there’s always room for new ideas and initiatives.”

What are you most looking forward to for your future at BrightAnalytics? 

Arthur Dejonckheere: “I’ve been here for a year now, and there are still so many opportunities, especially in sales. If you perform well, you’re rewarded here. I’m looking forward to what the future holds.”

Arthur Vandorpe: “For me, the highlight is always the end of the quarter, especially if it’s successful. Last quarter was a great example of how ambition and continuous development come together.”

What about advancement opportunities at BrightAnalytics? 

Arthur Vandorpe: “They definitely exist! I started as a Business Developer in September 2021, was promoted to Associate Executive in July 2022, and became an Account Executive in July 2023, which is my current role. Additionally, many new positions have been added over the years. At BrightAnalytics, you really have the chance to advance your career as long as you’re willing to work for it.”