Business services are the various tasks and activities that help maintain a company, despite not resulting in a tangible product. They include everything from information technology to cleaning, and encompass a large portion of the commercial world.
Generally, businesses rely on external business services providers to perform non-core functions because it’s often more cost effective than doing it internally. This allows companies to focus on their core business and maximize the value of their workforce. Business services providers can also offer specialized expertise that a company may not have in-house.
For example, a construction company might hire a janitorial service to clean the office, which can allow workers to concentrate more effectively on their work. Alternatively, a company that manufactures cars might use a logistics firm to store and transport the parts and materials needed to build vehicles. Logistics firms can also perform a variety of value-added services, such as labeling and packaging, order entering and fulfillment, and light assembly.
These services are important for all businesses because they provide support functions that can’t be performed by employees who are focused on core business processes. Those supporting functions might include human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, supply chain management, and more. Some businesses may choose to centralize their shared services in a corporate center, which can offer numerous benefits, such as reduced costs, improved service, and greater efficiency.
While some of these services are purely administrative, others play a vital role in the productivity of businesses. For example, many companies rely on delivery services to receive essential supplies like office equipment and furniture without having to travel to the retail or office location to buy them. Other business services, such as animal control and pest extermination, are critical for maintaining the health and safety of a company’s workspaces. And finally, many companies need tech support professionals to address problems with networks and computers that can affect employee productivity.
Another common type of business service is financial services, which includes everything from banking and investing to lending money and insurance. This can be useful for growing a small business or expanding into new markets, and can even cover the cost of unexpected expenses. Business loans, lines of credit and merchant cash advances are all forms of financial services that can be beneficial for a company’s growth.
While a career in business services isn’t for everyone, there are plenty of opportunities for those with the right skills and interest. It’s important for those interested in this industry to research the available jobs and determine whether they are a good fit for their skill set and personality. If you’re not comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, or you don’t have strong interpersonal and communication skills, you might want to consider other careers. However, if you’re committed to customer service and are willing to put in the work, a job in business services could be a great opportunity for you.
