The different departments within a business depends on several factors, including the size of the company, the ownership and how it operates.

Having an understand of the different departments within a business will help you see the different areas you can progress into. It will also help you in interviews as it shows the employer you are commercially aware.

Below are the most comment departments of a business:

HR – The HR department is responsible for looking after the human element of the business. Roles within HR include recruitment, training, employee benefits/relations and legal compliance.

Marketing – The marketing department is where the planning and creativity come together. Marketers understand and anticipate the needs of their customers and develop marketing campaigns and materials.

IT – These days most businesses are digital. Businesses must have a comprehensive IT system to stay competitive. The IT department will support with any technical issues including training, maintenance, and IT security.

Customer Service – Customer service is what keeps a business going. Having employees provide an outstanding customer service will help to retain customers and enable the business to grow. Customer service advisors will support customers and be the people that customers remember.

Sales – Within a business the sales department plays a crucial role. It is the generator of income for the business. By making sales and retaining customers the sales department helps o grow the business. Different roles include lead generation, account management and referrals.

Accounting and finance – Having a strong accounting and finance department within a business is essential to keep a healthy cash flow and fund the day-to-day running of the business.

There are of course more departments within different businesses.

It is useful to think about what areas you can see yourself working in, and what skills you currently have that would suit different functions. Think about what you would like to progress onto in the future and be open with your employer. They may even be able to offer you secondment opportunities.

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