Business services are activities that assist businesses but don’t produce a tangible product. They encompass a large portion of the commercial world, and companies of all sizes rely on them. They include things like information technology, accounting, marketing, staffing, and facility management. There are many different types of business services, and the ones you choose to offer depend on your skills and interests.

Some of the most common business services include interpretation, translation, technology support, and personal services. Interpreters and translators help businesses reach a wider audience by facilitating conversations and meetings between individuals who speak different languages. Tech support workers troubleshoot computer and network issues to keep employees productive. Personal services providers, on the other hand, provide workplace amenities for employees. These may include workout facilities, relaxation areas, and transportation.

A company can use business services to improve efficiency, focus on core functions, and grow its customer base. They can also rely on these providers to develop and maintain specialized expertise that they may not have in-house. They can also benefit from the cost-effectiveness of outsourcing, and scale their service needs up or down depending on seasonal demand.

The professional and business services supersector is a major employer, and its jobs are growing rapidly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this sector increased by 1.2% between 2020 and 2022. The number of jobs in this industry is also expected to increase as more firms outsource tasks to improve productivity.

Companies rely on business-to-business (B2B) services to reach new markets and customers. They also use them to improve the productivity of their employees and reduce operating expenses. These services are intangible, and they can be delivered virtually. They can include e-commerce services, customer service, marketing, and advertising.

B2B services are used by businesses of all sizes, from small startups to multinational corporations. Some of these services are cloud-based and allow companies to scale their operations more easily than in-house solutions. Others provide a more bespoke approach, such as customer relationship management and sales force automation.

While a startup can benefit from using B2B services, it’s important to consider the costs and risks associated with them. A small company might not have the resources to pay for an enterprise-level solution, while a large corporation may find it more practical to outsource these functions in order to concentrate on its core products and services.

If you’re considering a career in the business services industry, it’s important to know that these roles can be stressful and high-pressure. They require strong interpersonal and communication skills, and you’ll often work closely with clients. If you’re not comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, this isn’t the right career path for you.