Business services describe work that supports a company but does not produce a tangible product. They can be administrative, technical or professional. In general, these activities help a business run efficiently and effectively. They include activities like information technology (IT) support, shipping and logistics, financial management and human resources. Business services can also provide consulting and advice to help a company solve a problem or reach a goal.
Businesses that offer these services are known as service-based industries. They differ from product-based companies because they are in business primarily to offer their expertise and skills, not to sell a physical commodity. Service businesses often need to spend more time and money establishing relationships with customers, marketing their offerings and training employees. This may be especially true for startups that are new to the industry.
To be successful, service-based businesses must deliver a good experience that meets the needs and desires of a target audience. This requires a major shift in thinking, from one that focuses on the characteristics of the product to one that focuses on the experiences of customers. For example, a successful product designer must think about how to make the product attractive and appealing to potential buyers. A successful service designer must think about how to create and deliver an experience that is convenient, friendly, and efficient for customers.
Service-based business managers must also learn to build strong service systems that allow different parts of the organization to function in concert. These systems must be able to balance the autonomy of revenue-generating line managers with the value of shared services that can contribute to overall performance. Without a solid set of tools, the success of a service-based business is often elusive.
The demand for professionals in the field of business services is growing rapidly, due to a variety of factors. This demand, combined with the high pay offered by these jobs, makes them an attractive option for job seekers. However, some aspects of the work can be stressful and demanding. Those who choose to pursue a career in this field should be comfortable working in fast-paced environments and should have excellent interpersonal communication skills. If these aren’t traits that you have, a career in business services might not be for you.