Bricks-and-Mortar

How would you choose the best industry in which to invest your money? A little help from Porter’s five forces analysis might give you just the insight you need to make an informed investment decision.

With a backdrop of cheering family and friends, high school seniors are filing across stages this month to receive their diplomas and head off in new directions, either into the workforce, toward college or perhaps both. More than three million students in the U.S. are expected to graduate this year from high school – that’s a lot of “Congratulations Graduate!” greeting cards. Will yours be stuffed with cash? Graduation is a $4-billion-plus business – and growing.

Football fans are likely lining up outside a Finish Line store in Gainesville, Fla. Baltimore Ravens safety Matt Elam, who signed a million-dollar contract last year as a first-round pick, has decided to work in the mall during the off-season to get experience for the day when he hopes to become a retail entrepreneur. Industry insiders agree that solid store experience is a great first step toward a career in retail, whether you plan to work as a buyer, merchandiser or even social media maven. KWHS explores various retail careers.