Whereas the "old continent" and France particularly, are stuck into the respect of the precautionary principle, the emerging countries have appropriated since long the daring principle.
The H1N1 flu, the volcanic ashes, the Greek economic issue… These are the topics which have drawn attention and energy of our politicians and medias over the past 12 months. They have one more time revealed that Europe is going backwards and is focusing more on risks and threats than on opportunities! What a pity that the old continent has trouble in going out of the economic downturn and that challengers of Europe have started again with growth levels of over 5% per year.
The precautionary principle has largely invaded the business world. Investing has become a forbidden fruit and the back to swear worn a current practice. Yet, immobilism has never created wealth…
Don’ be mistaken! The daring principle does not mean taking excessive risks. Indeed, audacity is only worthy if it is supported by method and control and guided by a vision. It is precisely because too many firms lack of vision that they prefer remain at standstill.
Nevertheless, business development is everything but a gamble; it is a know-how built throughout the years and experiences inside companies. An external consultant can accelerate the acquisition of this know-how, either by its valuation or its ability to analyze past successes and failures.
That was my first intention when writing “Business Development” edited at Eyrolles in May 2010. By relying on my professional experience and the successes of fast growing companies, I have tried to identify the recipes of sustainable development (and consequently profitable) of firms. My book can be seen as an invitation for audacity by suggesting the reader to capitalize as much as possible on entrepreneurial dynamics and on the relevant development levers.
