The business services sector is responsible for many of the activities that help a company run smoothly. From computer support to animal control, this important segment of the economy accounts for 11% of Europe’s gross domestic product (GDP). It is also increasingly being used to add value to products through new combinations of goods and services. The European Commission has recently launched a high-level group on the topic in order to give fresh impetus to policy development and provide a greater focus on service-led growth.
Unlike the production of physical commodities, which can be stored and sold for use at a later date, business services are consumed immediately. This makes the industry highly competitive and volatile, and it is important for businesses to keep a close eye on their costs in this sector.
While the majority of business services are aimed at companies, there are also some that serve consumers. The most common consumer-facing business services include insurance, banking and transportation.
Successful business services rely on a variety of techniques that enable you to define the needs of your customers and other stakeholders and translate those requirements into simple measurable service elements. These techniques are as applicable to upgrading existing services as they are to creating new ones, especially as business environments constantly change.
A typical job in business services involves working with a team to find creative solutions for problems that arise. These issues may relate to technology, operations or employee productivity, for example. Depending on the nature of your work, you might need to travel to client locations in order to carry out the tasks that are required. In other cases, you might be able to work from home or another remote location with an internet connection.
The responsibilities of a career in business services are diverse and can range from providing technical support to assisting a client with a project. You might be required to write reports or deliver presentations, for instance. You could also be involved in the planning of company events or organizing the inventory of equipment and materials. You might even be responsible for negotiating contracts with suppliers.
Most jobs in business services are full-time positions, though some can be done part-time. You can find employment opportunities in this field with a high school diploma or GED certificate, as well as with a bachelor’s degree. However, some roles require advanced degrees. For example, some careers in this area involve being a consultant and require a master’s or doctorate degree. This type of role is highly competitive and pays well. However, it can be difficult to break into this field without a solid network of contacts and significant professional experience. Some people start as freelancers or independent contractors before moving into full-time roles. This is because this is a good way to build a network of connections in the industry and learn the ropes. It’s also an excellent way to get a taste of what a career in business services is all about.