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Entry Level Business Development Associate Jobs in Illinois

SMS

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Call Center -Entry Level Business Development Representative

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

SMS/ISI is a Chicago based full-service business development firm, helping small to mid-sized businesses achieve their financial goals for over 34 years. Position Details * Call leads and prospects ...

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Entry Level Business Development Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$28.1K

$54K

$89.2K

How much do entry level business development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level business development associate in Illinois is $54,045.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $59,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Entry Level Business Development Associates, and how can they be overcome?

Entry Level Business Development Associates often encounter challenges such as building a robust client pipeline, handling rejection, and quickly learning about diverse industries. Overcoming these hurdles requires proactive communication, resilience, and a willingness to continuously learn from feedback and mentorship. Collaborating closely with sales, marketing, and senior business development team members can provide valuable insights and support, helping new associates adapt and thrive in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Business Development Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Business Development Associate, you need strong interpersonal skills, basic understanding of sales and marketing principles, and a relevant bachelor's degree, often in business or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, lead generation tools, and Microsoft Office Suite is commonly required. Excellent communication, resilience, and a proactive attitude help you stand out in building relationships and driving results. These skills and qualities are crucial for identifying opportunities, managing client interactions, and supporting the company's growth objectives.

What does an Entry Level Business Development Associate do?

An Entry Level Business Development Associate is responsible for supporting a company’s growth by identifying new business opportunities, generating leads, and assisting with client outreach. They often conduct market research, help prepare sales presentations, and build relationships with potential clients under the guidance of senior team members. This role is typically a starting position in the business development field and offers valuable experience in sales, marketing, and client management.

What is the difference between Entry Level Business Development Associate vs Sales Representative?

AspectEntry Level Business Development AssociateSales Representative
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often preferred; some roles may require familiarity with CRM toolsHigh school diploma or equivalent; sales certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, client meetings, prospectingOffice, retail, or field sales environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, finance, and consulting firmsWidespread across retail, insurance, and manufacturing sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles focused on business growthLooking for direct sales roles and targets

While both roles involve engaging with clients and promoting products or services, the Entry Level Business Development Associate primarily focuses on identifying new business opportunities, building relationships, and supporting strategic growth. In contrast, a Sales Representative typically concentrates on closing sales and meeting sales targets. The associate role often requires more strategic outreach, whereas sales reps are more transaction-focused.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Business Development Associate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Business Development Associate job openings:
Entry Level Business Development Associate jobs near you
Business Development Associate/Inside Sales

Business Development Associate/Inside Sales

Worthy Insurance Group, LLC

Skokie, IL • On-site

$42K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Worthy Insurance Group, a national Property & Casualty Insurance Brokerage with locations in Skokie, IL and East Lansing, MI is looking for a Business Development Associate. This position requires an innate drive to succeed, an entrepreneurial spirit, a desire to learn and creative problem-solving skills. Competitive base salary plus commission.
Who We Are:
Worthy Insurance focuses on providing creative insurance solutions to the healthcare, social service, and real estate industries. Taking care of people and their businesses while protecting their livelihoods and assets is at the core of what we do. Worthy empowers our employees to grow with personal and professional development opportunities. We thrive in a culture that encourages our employees to be active in our communities and industry. We work hard, but we love to have fun!
Worthy employees enjoy:
  • 4-day Workweek
  • 401k with company match
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Gym Membership in WiFi building
  • Insurance education bonus program
  • Nationwide travel for client and prospect visits
  • Paid Time Off for Volunteering

Key Responsibilities:
  • Implement marketing strategies to develop a strong network of prospective clients.
  • Conduct phone, face-to-face and social media prospecting.
  • Solicit referrals from clients.
  • Leverage social media platforms to increase leads.
  • Develops, follows, and completes sales objectives to meet agency defined metrics.
  • Conduct sales presentations with the intent of selling insurance product.
  • Develop a book of business that is profitable for both the agency and carriers.
  • Develop and maintain meaningful relationships with clients and carriers.
  • Utilize all tools and resources available to you to maximize work performance, including participation in IJA webinars, carrier resources, and agency Sales Manual.
  • Utilize effective communication internally including, but not limited to the Risk Management team, Servicing team, and Finance team.
  • Be a flexible member of our growing team taking on new assignments and challenges within your area of expertise.

YOUR FUTURE as an Independent Insurance Agent Starts Here
If you're looking for a career that offers flexibility, job stability, competitive compensation, and more, then you've come to the right place! Working with an independent agency is a great career choice.
Independent insurance agents protect our customers by providing home, auto, business, life and health insurance policies to fit their individual needs. Independent agencies are not bound to offering products from only one insurance company. Instead, we can offer customers a choice of policies from a variety of insurance companies to provide the best protection at a competitive price.
The demand for insurance professionals is growing every day! Is this career right for you?
This agency is independently owned and operated. Your application will go directly to the agency, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this agency. All inquiries about employment at this agency should be made directly to the location, and not to Big I of Illinois Association.

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