For many graduates, the focus is on leveraging their functional expertise in fields like finance, marketing, or engineering. However, it’s equally important to explore vertical industries. Consider the specific sectors such as healthcare, entertainment, or technology, where your skills can shine. Keep an open mind and you will broaden your opportunities and enhance your career start. Understanding how functional roles and vertical industries interact is the first step toward a successful job search.
This post is part of our “Top Companies to Launch Your Career” series, and it’s designed to help you think beyond conventional choices. We’ll examine companies in various industries, highlight entry-level opportunities, and provide actionable tips to land your first job. But first, let’s unpack why combining functional and vertical perspectives is key to career growth and how this mindset can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Functional vs. Vertical Industries: The Key to Broader Career Options
Functional industries are all about the job roles you perform, such as accounting, data analysis, or graphic design. On the other hand, vertical industries refer to the overarching sector, like healthcare, media, or real estate. For example, a finance major doesn’t need to restrict themselves to banking; they could explore finance roles in the renewable energy or retail sectors. This versatility allows you to align your skills with industries you’re passionate about.
A great example of this dynamic is Johnson & Johnson. While traditionally known for healthcare products, they offer functional roles in marketing, supply chain management, and finance. Early-stage employees at companies like this often benefit from diverse experience—working in cross-functional teams within a vertical industry that aligns with their interests.
Why Entry-Level Employees Should Diversify Their Options
One of the biggest advantages of thinking both functionally and vertically is increased job availability. Healthcare and technology, for instance, are booming verticals with ample opportunities across all functional roles. Additionally, vertical industries often provide different stability and growth potential.
When you diversify your search, you not only gain access to more jobs but also set yourself up for accelerated learning. Working in a less traditional combination of function and industry—such as finance in a nonprofit—can provide unique experiences that distinguish you from your peers. Companies value candidates who bring innovative perspectives gained from diverse career paths. Let’s take a look at some different functional and vertical integrations!
Spotlight: Salesforce
Salesforce, a leader in customer relationship management software, is a prime example of how combining functional expertise with a vertical focus can jumpstart your career. While Salesforce is widely known for its roles in sales, marketing, and customer success, the company also offers exceptional opportunities for those in finance. For example, financial professionals can thrive at Salesforce by managing the company’s vast global operations, analyzing data to inform strategic decisions, and ensuring financial health through budgeting and forecasting.
Alternate Function Example:
If you’re pursuing a financial career, Salesforce could be a great place to apply your expertise. The company offers finance roles that allow you to work within a dynamic tech sector, where you can align your financial skills with innovative solutions to create value. It’s a perfect example of how a finance professional can succeed in a tech-driven environment, contributing to business growth while learning from cross-functional teams. Concerned about salary limitations if finance is not the focus of the organization? Working your way up at a company like Salesforce can offer tremendous opportunity. Chief Financial Officer at SALESFORCE INC, Amy Weaver made $12,275,574 in total compensation according to proxy statements filed for the 2024 fiscal year.
Entry-Level Salary and Benefits: Salesforce offers competitive starting salaries, averaging $80,000 for roles like Business Development Representatives, and up to $100,000 for software engineering roles. Employees also enjoy perks like wellness reimbursements, professional development stipends, and generous PTO.
Success Stories: Notable alumni include Bret Taylor, who began his career at Salesforce and later co-founded successful startups before becoming co-CEO of Salesforce itself. These stories highlight the upward mobility possible within the company. Learn more about Bret Taylor’s journey.
Tips for Applying:
- Tailor your application: Highlight cross-functional skills like communication and problem-solving, especially if you’re transitioning from another vertical industry.
- Leverage networking: Attend events hosted by Salesforce and connect with current employees on LinkedIn.
- Prepare for case studies: Many roles at Salesforce require solving real-world problems during interviews. Practice with similar scenarios beforehand.
Apply Here: Salesforce Careers
Spotlight: Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble (P&G), a global leader in consumer goods, provides unparalleled entry-level opportunities for those interested in marketing, supply chain, and product innovation roles. But P&G is also home to thriving tech careers, especially in roles that focus on digital transformation, product development, and data analytics. Technology professionals at P&G work on everything from automation to the application of machine learning to optimize supply chains and improve product design.
Alternate Function Example:
Imagine combining your tech expertise with P&G’s commitment to consumer innovation. As a tech professional, you could be working on cutting-edge digital solutions that impact everything from product marketing to manufacturing efficiency. This is a fantastic example of how a tech career at a traditionally non-tech company can lead to exciting, impactful work across industries.In fact, this year PepsiCo’s Seth Cohen joinedn P&G as Global CIO (Chief Information Officer Following Vittorio Cretella’s Retirement. As a technology leader, Cohen has spent over 30 years working in consumer goods and retail industries vertical, gaining a reputation for his expertise building world-class IT functions and developing top talent.
Entry-Level Salary and Benefits: P&G’s entry-level roles, such as Brand Management Associates, offer salaries starting at $70,000, along with comprehensive benefits like health insurance, tuition reimbursement, and leadership development programs.
Success Stories: One notable alumnus is A.G. Lafley, who started at P&G and eventually became its CEO, credited with leading a major company turnaround. His journey illustrates how P&G develops leaders from within. Learn more about A.G. Lafley’s story.
Tips for Applying:
- Focus on leadership experience: P&G highly values candidates who demonstrate leadership and problem-solving skills.
- Showcase creativity: Highlight projects or roles where you contributed innovative ideas.
- Prepare for behavioral interviews: P&G relies heavily on behavioral questions, so use the STAR method to structure your answers.
Apply Here: P&G Careers
Spotlight: Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente, one of the largest healthcare providers in the U.S., is an excellent starting point for careers in healthcare administration, IT, and finance. Their focus on integrated care systems provides unique exposure to the healthcare vertical. But Kaiser, like any major health system, offers a wealth of career opportunities for a wide array of functional areas.
Marketing and/or Communications Career
Kaiser Permanente provides a great environment for marketing professionals looking to make an impact in the healthcare sector. You could work on promoting Kaiser’s services, creating health awareness campaigns, or developing content to engage patients and the community. This role allows you to leverage your marketing expertise to advance healthcare initiatives and improve patient outcomes. Like many health systems
Entry-Level Salary and Benefits: Kaiser Permanente offers entry-level roles such as Healthcare Analysts starting at $65,000, with additional benefits like student loan assistance, robust healthcare plans, and opportunities for continuing education.
Success Stories: Bernard J. Tyson, a former CEO of Kaiser Permanente, began his journey with the organization and rose through the ranks, leaving a lasting legacy of innovation in healthcare delivery. Learn more about Bernard J. Tyson.
Tips for Applying:
- Emphasize mission alignment: Highlight your passion for improving healthcare outcomes in your application.
- Research their integrated care model: Familiarity with their approach to healthcare delivery can set you apart during interviews.
- Network within the industry: Attend healthcare career fairs and connect with Kaiser Permanente employees to learn more.
Apply Here: Kaiser Permanente Careers
Final Thoughts
Remember, just because you are a finance major, doesn’t mean your opportunities are limited to investment banks and accounting firms. Take a moment to explore different paths to your dream job. Exploring both functional and vertical industries can significantly enhance your job search and early career trajectory. Companies like Salesforce, Procter & Gamble, and Kaiser Permanente exemplify how versatile entry-level opportunities can help you build a solid foundation for long-term success. Remember to think strategically about your skills and passions, and don’t hesitate to look beyond traditional roles or sectors.
Ready to start your journey? Explore our full series of Top Companies for Entry-Level Employees to find the top companies across a broad variety of industries and tips tailored for early-stage professionals like you.
