Table of contents
In a time when business is more competitive than ever, there has never been a greater need for professional services. But what are professional services? Who offers them? And how do they help the industry?
What are professional services?
The professional services sector often consists of people selling intangible assets to help customers manage their business or improve a specific part of their business. Providers of professional services bring niche outside expertise in areas like construction or finance into a business, allowing the business owners to concentrate on delivering their core services. They can either be completely independent of the business they’re helping or embedded in the business.
Examples of professional services and how to get started
Financial services
Almost everyone in the financial sector can be recognized as a provider of professional services, including accountants, financial advisors and tax advisors. Financial professionals don’t generally sell specific products; they sell their acquired knowledge of the financial markets to clients.
Those considering a career in financial services usually come from a mathematical background. A bachelor’s degree is required at the minimum, typically with a major in finance, economics, accounting, or business. Beyond those, a graduate degree, such as an MBA (Masters of Business Administration) may be necessary for more advanced work.
However, it is not always necessary to achieve university-level qualifications. Some financial sector employers offer paid or unpaid internships which can be pursued post graduation or while still in school. Graduate level positions typically have higher starting salaries. Certain financial careers require specific formal qualifications which can be earned while working, such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) qualifications. Some employers offer apprenticeships and a few allow candidates to study for a degree on the side while working.
Pet services
Pet services focus on the wellbeing of pets separate from the veterinarians office. These services include grooming, dog walkers, daycare providers, boarders, pet sitters, and more.
Depending on the type of service, entering into the world of pet services can often be as simple making yourself available. Dog walking, for instance, is a common side hustle for those looking to bring in a little extra cash or spend a bit more time around our furry friends. To get started, people tend to volunteer at animal shelters or offer to walk their family and friends dogs to gain practical experience.
Other pet service offerings like becoming a pet groomer often take a bit more knowledge and experience. For instance, many dog groomers start by going to dog grooming school or taking a course to better understand animals, animal welfare, and how to give animal aid. Depending on your local laws, there also may be specific requirements and licensing needed in order to officially declare your dog grooming business open.
Event management
Event management can encompass a wide range of activities including events, festivals, and tourist offerings (e.g. helicopter tours). There are several ways to get started in the field of event management services. Depending on the nature of events you want to work with, getting started could look like gaining a degree or certain certifications to seeking out entry level opportunities in the events field to gain hands on experience.
Another great way to get started in event management is to network. Because events often rely on several vendors, building relationships and people skills can help you navigate the industry with a firmer hand. Building an event portfolio is also key because it helps show potential event partners what you’ve done and allows you to showcase your skills and creativity in a different light.
Legal services
Lawyers and other legal professionals provide professional services including advice on legal matters and representing people in court. Legal professionals typically specialize in certain sectors of law, from crime to contracts to immigration to real estate, and many more.
There are several roles within the legal services profession, each of which requires varying degrees of qualifications and experience. To become a lawyer, the bare minimum requirements are to earn a bachelor’s degree, pass the LSAT (Law School Administration Test), graduate from an accredited law school, and pass a state bar exam for the jurisdiction in which you’d like to practice law. As of 2024, there are 4 states that permit aspiring lawyers to take the Bar exam without earning a law degree (though there are other requirements): California, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.
Creative and marketing services
Marketers and other creatives including photography professionals, PR consultants, copywriters and digital marketers all provide professional services to businesses. Marketing executives utilize a range of professional skills to promote products, services and ideas for businesses.
There are many different ways to get started in a career in creative and marketing services. Experience is often held in higher regard than formal qualifications. Although many employers will look favorably on those with a degree in marketing, qualifications in related subjects such as business, psychology, IT, mathematics and the arts are also valuable. Internships and entry-level positions with digital agencies provide a good jumping-off point. Many people start their careers in creative and marketing services by registering as self-employed and working freelance, building up a portfolio of work they can use to demonstrate their experience and professional expertise.
FAQs about professional services
What is a professional services firm?
A professional services firm is any business or organization that offers specialized knowledge-based services to its clients. Their services can benefit small businesses in many ways – giving owners a deeper understanding of an aspect of their business, providing customized advice to help with growth and strategy, helping them stay compliant with the law etc.
What is the difference between consulting and professional services?
Professional services covers a wide range of professions where experts provide knowledge-based services. Consulting is a service within professional services where experts may be required to give their opinion and advice. With professional services it tends to be specific practical help with elements of the business although there is some crossover between the two, and terms are often used interchangeably.
What is professional services management?
Professional services management involves delivering specific projects on time and on budget. It usually requires the planning and implementation of a project and making sure all team members work most effectively to meet company policy, best practices, and industry standards.
Getting started with Square
If you’re looking to get started in professional services, or to enhance your offering, Square can help.
Square Invoices lets you invoice clients quickly and accurately from anywhere, maintaining detailed records of all transactions. Customers receive a seamless service while you benefit from faster payments and smart financial management software.
Square Virtual Terminal allows you to take card payments over the phone or online, turning your home computer or mobile device into a remote payment card terminal.
Square Appointments lets you simplify scheduling, facilitating online booking, and manage availability automatically. It can also be used to maximize your point.
Ready to get started? See what we offer or talk to sales today.
