Businesses need two things to thrive: a product and customers willing to pay for it. But even if you don’t have any physical goods, you can still run a successful business by selling services. These are called business-to-business (B2B) services, and they can include consulting, accounting, marketing, information technology, and more. Many people work in these types of service businesses, and there are a few different ways to approach this type of work.
General services are those which are not directly involved in the company management and growth but without which the company gets paralyzed. Such services are normally taken from external service providers like insurance companies for their employees mediclaim and health and wellness benefits, delivery services that help companies get necessary supplies without having to go shopping, or rental services for office or retail space. Services that aid employee quality of life like day care or fitness centers are also considered part of general business services.
These services may not be as tangible as products, but they can have just as big an impact on a business’s success. That’s why it’s important to understand what a business service is and how it can help your own small enterprise be more profitable.
In general, a business service is any type of support activity that helps a business achieve its goals. The most common examples of a business service are IT, human resources, and accounting services. Business services are often considered to be more valuable than traditional products, because they help a business focus on its strengths and minimize the time it spends on its weaknesses.
For example, if your company is struggling with customer service issues, hiring an outside firm to handle the calls and emails can free up some of your employees’ time so they can focus on improving your reputation among customers. Similarly, if your company is plagued by pests, hiring an animal control or pest extermination service can help to keep the problem under control and prevent it from getting out of hand.
As you’re considering which career path to take, it’s helpful to understand how much flexibility there is in this field. Some jobs in this sector require nothing more than a high school diploma or GED certificate, while others require a bachelor’s degree. There are even virtual jobs that you can complete to gain first-hand experience in the role of a business service professional.
Business services are an integral part of any business, and they’re growing in importance as globalization increases. Whether you’re looking for an entry-level position or want to move up the ladder, there’s likely a job out there that fits your skills and personality. Just remember to stay flexible and always be ready to learn from your mistakes! NerdWallet writer, Emily Slattery.
