Business news is the area of journalism that tracks, records and interprets the commercial activities and changes that take place in society. It covers all aspects of commerce, from small to large businesses and is often published in newspapers, magazines and online. Some examples of well-known, broad-scope business publications are The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. However, many more industry-specific publications exist as well. These are often called trade journals or trade publications. These can be useful resources for researching specific businesses or industries if you know how to find them.
Most people who work in business are familiar with the admonition not to mix personal and professional matters, or “don’t go there.” The idea is that you don’t want to have your work life invade your private life, or vice versa. This is a good general rule of thumb, but there are always exceptions. Some people find a way to make their work and their personal lives fit together perfectly, and it is a fine accomplishment if this is possible. But if you’re not one of these people, the boundaries between your work and your life may seem to be constantly shifting.
The word business can also mean a particular industry in which you operate, as in “I’m in the business of selling computers.” It can also refer to the entire operation of your company including marketing and production, and it can be used in compound form as a noun to describe a type of organisation such as a “law firm” or an “insurance company.”
Many people see the business of business as a zero-sum game with profit as the only thing that counts. This is a dangerous mindset that leads to all sorts of dysfunction, and it is not limited to the world of finance or corporate greed. It is equally harmful in the nonprofit sector, and it can even be found among some church-based charities.
Amanda Larkins is a senior client success associate with Centerfield, an advisory and investment banking firm that helps startups and early-stage companies grow to be profitable and sustainable enterprises. She works closely with her clients, forming strategic partnerships that maximize their potential for growth and success. Previously, she worked at Monster and TechTarget in client success roles. She has a bachelor’s degree in political science and Spanish. In her free time, she enjoys reading and playing guitar. She currently resides in Boston.
