A business needs a variety of professional services. But what kind of service(s) a business needs depends on its size and nature. For example, a startup will need a different set of services than a well-established organization with 100 employees or more.
But independent contractors generally provide many of the following standard professional services:
1. Construction Services
These services include carpentry, electrical, and plumbing work. A general contractor (GC) hires subcontractors to complete a construction project broken down into specific tasks and functions under the direction and management of the GC. For example, suppose you want to build an addition to your home. In that case, you’ll have to hire a general contractor who then works with numerous subcontractors to complete the project.
GCs are responsible for planning, scheduling, and coordinating all aspects of the project to ensure it remains on budget and schedule. They monitor progress, resolve problems as they arise, and provide final inspection services.
2. Legal Services
A legal professional is an attorney-at-law who provides legal advice, assistance, and representation for clients in civil, criminal, and other legal matters. An attorney can work in many different areas, such as corporate law, intellectual property law, estate planning, and real estate.
3. Bookkeeping Services
A professional bookkeeper is a professional who records financial transactions in the business’ accounting system. The bookkeeping process often includes:
- recording all cash received and disbursed,
- bank reconciliations, and
- tracking expenses against income and generating periodic reports.
4. Marketing Services
Marketing professionals assist businesses with developing marketing strategies and implementing them in ways that can engage customers, increase brand loyalty and drive sales. The marketing department might work with advertising agencies, design firms, public relations groups, and other specialized professionals in planning successful campaigns.
5. Research and Development (R&D)
Generally speaking, R&D refers to independent or contracted research for businesses to explore new products or methods of production/operation. R&D professionals need to provide business owners with information on the value and payback of new technologies they explore.
6. Human Resources
The services provided by a human resources consultant or HR professional are varied. However, they typically include developing human resources strategies, implementing HR programs/policies, providing HR training, and performing risk management.
7. IT Services
The range of services provided by an IT professional is many. They generally include designing computer networks, installing hardware or software systems, configuring business email systems, securing your network against cyber threats, and managing computers/devices for optimal performance.
8. Commercial Cleaning Services
A commercial cleaner will generally work with various businesses and government agencies to provide janitorial services/maintenance. The professional keeps your business or organization’s facilities clean, safe, and attractive to protect its image and encourage positive relations with customers and clients.
9. Security Services
Security personnel protects your assets: property, people, equipment, and information. They can work in various environments, including—but not limited to—residential, commercial, and government properties.
10. Accounting and Tax Preparation Services
An accountant works with businesses and individuals to help them organize their finances/accounting needs and prepare tax returns. An accountant will likely work in many specialties, such as certified public accountants (CPAs), bookkeepers, or financial analysts.
11. Real Estate Services
A real estate professional can assist you when buying or selling property, especially when you open a new branch or move to a new establishment. Some professionals might also specialize in specific areas of real estate, such as commercial property.
12. Estate Planning Services
An estate planning professional can assist clients with developing customized legal documents. These legal documents will ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes after they have passed away. Typical services include wills, trusts, and living wills/power of attorney documentation.
13. Event Planning Services
Event planners coordinate all aspects of an event, from the invitations to the guests, catering, and entertainment. They can also oversee venue setup/rental, decorations, and onsite coordination during the actual event.
14. Catalog Production Services
Catalog producers work with merchandisers, print houses, and businesses/organizations that need catalogs. Their responsibility includes:
- developing the overall design of the catalog,
- arranging product shots, and
- ensuring the finished product adheres to any company branding guidelines.
15. Retail Store Design Services
Retail store designers are responsible for the look, layout, and strategy of a retail business’s physical location. They will consider how products are displayed, customer flow around the space, staff requirements, and point-of-sale opportunities.
16. Succession Planning Services
Succession planning services are designed to help business owners/executives plan to transfer responsibilities to their heirs or other successors. The professional will work with clients while alive and after they have passed away to ensure that obligations remain uninterrupted.
Many industries and job roles fall under the umbrella of a “business professional.” To determine which professional is right for your business, consider what services you most need assistance with.
