If you work at a utility, your job is probably pretty secure during a recession
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If you're looking for a truly recession-proof business, then there are a few old standards that might not be sexy, but they sure are reliable. These non-cyclical businesses survive through good times and bad because they provide basic, necessary services.
The perfect example is funeral services. Funeral homes see a steady stream of business no matter how the stock market is performing. And since we're on the subject of death, we might as well mention the other of life's guarantees: taxes. As long as the IRS keeps things confusing, there will be plenty of work for accountants.
Public utilities like electricity, gas and waste disposal are necessary for the clean and comfortable functioning of society. If a city government tried to save money by only collecting garbage once a month, it would cause a stink, to say the least.
Other industries that fall under the banner of non-cyclical are religious organizations, the military, pharmaceuticals, veterinary services and repair technicians. So if you lose your job as a hedge fund manager, you might consider a career as a vacuum-repairing priest.
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