Business services encompass all industries that support the operations and productivity of a company. Examples include IT services that provide technology solutions, consulting services to help companies meet their goals and objectives, and shipping and procurement services that ensure that a company has the material supplies needed for its business. Nearly every business requires these and many other types of services, so a career in this sector provides a large number of options.
Unlike product-based businesses, service businesses require less start-up money because they do not have to invest in producing a physical product. They also have the advantage of leveraging their expertise to create a unique offering that does not have to be shared with multiple clients. For example, a service business could offer an ecommerce site for business-to-business ordering of office supplies or provide consulting services to help a company develop its sales strategy.
As a result, the services sector has a high level of competition and a wide range of salaries. Those who seek to advance in this industry should focus on developing a strong skill set that is relevant to the position they are seeking and work toward earning a college degree.
The following table provides information relating to employment and unemployment in the business services sector. This includes the number of full-time jobs and part-time jobs, the rate of workplace fatalities, occupational injuries and illnesses per 100 full-time workers, union membership and representation, gross job gains and losses, and projected (future) employment change.