What Are Business Services?
Business services are actions/activities that help companies but do not result in a tangible product. They include things like advertising, marketing, consulting, logistics (including travel and facilities), waste management, staffing services, shipping and security. Large firms rely heavily on business services, as do many smaller ones. The industry comprises a major portion of the commercial world and keeps growing rapidly.
A company that offers one of these services, for example, may consult with a potential client to identify their needs and set expectations, then produce a proposal for a fee, followed by a contract. The value of a business service is often intangible, but it helps keep businesses running smoothly and efficiently.
Unlike goods, which can be stored and transported for later use, services are delivered as needed to customers. This requires constant interaction between providers and consumers to clarify requirements, convey expectations, set service-level agreements and verify quality of service. It also makes it challenging to ensure consistency in performance because human nature introduces inconsistency into the process.
Some business services, such as IT support and payroll administration, are offered to companies of all sizes, while others, such as janitorial or food catering services, are only available to larger corporations. A company that provides business services may offer these in-house or outsource them to third-party providers. The latter are usually more cost-effective as they don’t have to invest in the same physical infrastructure as in-house operations, and can hire employees on an as-needed basis.
A business services company might also focus on a particular area of expertise, for example, IT, human resources or accounting. They can help their clients save time and money by implementing new technologies, streamlining processes and eliminating duplication of effort. They can also provide strategic guidance to help clients grow their business.
Most jobs in this sector can be done remotely, and it is a great choice for people who are looking for flexible schedules, Spinelli says. However, the industry can be high-stress, and it is important to have strong interpersonal skills. “If you don’t thrive in a fast-paced environment, this might not be the right career for you,” she adds.
In addition to offering flexibility, working from home can be a good option for those who don’t want to commute and need a quiet workspace, she adds. Those who work in the industry are encouraged to continue their professional development by completing courses on topics such as business analytics, data science and artificial intelligence. They can also take advantage of free online programs such as Break Free Academy, which offers training for sales professionals, entrepreneurs and executives.