Most industries hire business positions to support their operational needs. If your interest is in pursuing a career in business, the delineation between job industry and job function is an important one to consider. The two main issues to consider are what you want to be doing, and where you want to be doing it. In most industries, it may be possible to combine your interests and skills to find a career that fits.
Industry insights
Check out the latest Vault guide to Business Administration and Management and other related industries.
Sample Employers in LionSHARE
Focus Areas in Business
Here is a sample list of applied areas in this industry:
Accounting
Accountants compile, analyze, verify, and prepare financial records, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cost studies, and tax reports. They may specialize in areas such as auditing, tax work, assurance, consulting, cost accounting, budgeting, or information technology systems and procedures. Auditors examine and verify financial records to ensure that they are accurate, complete, and in compliance with federal laws. Internships with public accounting firms, corporate finance teams, or non-profits provide valuable experience. Students interested in pursuing CPA or other certifications should plan their coursework and exam preparation early.
Customer Service & Customer Experience
Customer service professionals are the “front line” of many organizations, helping clients resolve issues and improve their experience. Customer service also involves customer success roles, user experience (UX), and designers. These roles also may involve leveraging digital platforms and AI chatbots to enhance client relationships. Internships in customer success or support teams, especially at tech companies can be valuable entry points.
Finance
Finance professionals manage investments, assess risks, and ensure organizations remain financially healthy. Careers range from financial analysis to fund management and risk assessment. For more on roles in the finance industry, see our Financial Services industry page.
Human Resources (HR)
HR professionals recruit, train, and support employees while shaping workplace culture. Modern HR emphasizes talent analytics and employee well-being. HR teams also leverage technology to improve recruitment and performance management..
Legal
Corporate legal professionals advise companies on regulatory compliance, contracts, intellectual property, and risk management. They may handle tax matters, represent the firm in transactions, and guide decision-making on legal obligations. Increasingly, expertise in data privacy, cybersecurity, and international law is valued.
Marketing
Marketing professionals build brand awareness and drive customer engagement through product development, pricing, digital campaigns, and public relations. The field has expanded to include social media strategy, influencer marketing, and data-driven consumer insights.
Operations & Supply Chain Management
Operations professionals ensure that businesses run efficiently, overseeing logistics, production, and process optimization. Supply chain management focuses on sourcing, transportation, and delivery of goods. Sustainability and resilience have become top priorities, alongside technology adoption and automation. For more on supply chain management, see our industry page on Industrial Engineering and Operations Research.
Risk & Compliance
Risk & Compliance professionals are responsible for ensuring their company operates within the boundaries of laws, regulations, and internal policies. They use their understanding of business operations, ethics, and regulatory frameworks to identify potential risks that could impact the organization. This may include developing compliance programs, conducting internal audits, monitoring risk indicators, and training staff on legal and regulatory requirements. Risk and compliance teams work to prevent violations, protect the company’s reputation, and support long-term stability by ensuring that daily operations align with external laws and internal standards.
Sales and Business Development
Sales professionals drive revenue by managing relationships, setting goals, and implementing strategies to grow customer bases. Business development roles focus on building partnerships and expanding market opportunities. Digital sales platforms and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools are now integral to success.
Columbia University Resources
- Explore CCE-sponsored internship programs.
- Attend CCE’s career fairs and networking events.
- Get involved with student organizations on campus such as Columbia Women’s Business Society, Multicultural Business Association, Columbia Organization for Rising Entrepreneurs, and the Columbia Corporate Law and Business Association.
