We are seeking a dedicated and results-driven Business Development Representative (BDR) / Lead Generation Specialist with a strong focus on the special education sector within K-12 schools.
In this role, you will be instrumental in driving the growth of our special education solutions by identifying, qualifying, and engaging decision-makers in school districts. You will work closely with the sales team to set appointments, facilitate a smooth handoff, and help secure new business in this critical and underserved market.
The ideal candidate has a passion for improving the educational experience of students with disabilities and an understanding of the challenges faced by special education departments. Your work will directly support the growth of innovative tools and services designed to enhance learning outcomes for students with special needs.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead Generation & Qualification
Research and identify potential leads within K-12 school districts, specifically targeting special education departments.
Initiate outbound outreach (cold calls, emails, social media) to engage special education directors, coordinators, and other key stakeholders.
Qualify prospects by understanding their current challenges, goals, and needs within special education.
Maintain and update an organized pipeline of qualified leads using CRM software, ensuring accurate data entry and follow-up actions.
Appointment Setting
Schedule meetings, demonstrations, and consultations for the full-cycle sales team with qualified prospects.
Collaborate with sales representatives to ensure alignment on the prospect’s needs and pain points before handoff.
Proactively follow up with prospects to confirm appointments and maintain engagement.
Special Education Market Research
Stay up-to-date on policies, trends, and regulations affecting special education in K-12, including federal mandates like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the management of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Identify districts with potential for implementing new special education resources, services, or technology.
Monitor competitors and market dynamics to identify opportunities to differentiate our solutions.
Collaboration
Work closely with the sales and marketing teams to develop targeted outreach strategies and messaging tailored to the unique needs of special education departments.
Provide feedback on lead quality, outreach effectiveness, and messaging adjustments based on market response.
Collaborate on reports and presentations that detail lead generation performance and areas for process improvement.
Performance Metrics:
Consistently achieve or exceed weekly and monthly lead generation and appointment-setting goals specific to the special education market.
Maintain high activity levels, including calls, emails, and other outreach activities focused on special education administrators and decision-makers.
Report on lead pipeline activity, conversion rates, and overall market penetration efforts within special education.
Key Skills & Qualifications
Experience:
1-3 years of experience in business development, lead generation, or a sales role, preferably within the education sector or with a focus on special education.
Proven success in generating leads and setting appointments in a B2B sales environment, with experience working in or with K-12 school districts being highly desirable.
Skills:
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to connect with special education professionals and understand their challenges.
Lead Qualification: Ability to ask the right questions to identify and qualify decision-makers' needs within special education.
Appointment Setting: Experience booking high-quality meetings and managing the handoff to sales personnel effectively.
CRM Proficiency: Experience using CRM tools (Salesforce, HubSpot, or similar) to manage and track leads through the sales pipeline.
Time Management: Excellent organizational and time management skills, with a strong ability to prioritize tasks in a high-paced environment.
Industry Knowledge: Knowledge of the K-12 special education sector, including familiarity with IEPs, IDEA, and common pain points for educators and administrators working in this area.
Personal Attributes:
Passion for improving the educational experience of students with disabilities.
Motivated and goal-oriented, with a demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Adaptable, with a strong ability to engage in a consultative approach to lead development.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working with special education services, educational technology (EdTech), or products designed for students with disabilities.
Knowledge of special education regulations, policies, and compliance requirements (IDEA, ADA, IEP management).
Bachelor’s degree in education, business, marketing, or a related field.