Working in Small firm

Why You Should Think Small

Most candidates seeking employment often ignore smaller employers and focus their efforts on larger firms. 

That could be a big mistake: Small firms may be in a better position to hire you, and there are more of them. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses represent more than 99.7 percent of all employers. They also employ more than half of all private-sector employees, pay 44.5 percent of the total U.S. private payroll, and generate about 75 percent of net new jobs annually.

Small companies tend to have business plans progressive enough that they can succeed regardless of how the economy is doing. They tend to be nimble and excel at finding their niche, regardless of the field. Also, small firms usually don't have large overhead that is burdened by big companies with fancy addresses and designer lobbies. 

Here are some benefits of working for a small company compared to a large business:

1. Learning different aspects of the business

Many workers are hungry for hands-on experience and eager to gain practical skills. Small business owners can emphasize the advantages of working closely with senior-level managers and potentially gaining a first-hand view of many aspects of running a business.

2. Opportunity to advance

At a small business, workers are the proverbial big fish in a small pond.  That means employees have high visibility from their first day and their creative ideas and hard work will be seen by the people at the top.

3. Flexibility

Some corporate environments are known for offering substantial flexibility in workplace or scheduling. Those are highly valued benefits, especially to working parents. But a small business can offer flexibility, too, and many savvy small business owners dangle perks such as flexible scheduling and telecommuting opportunities to highly qualified workers to make up for lower salaries or smaller bonuses.

4. Workplace culture

Many corporations pride themselves on their strong workplace culture, an important differentiator for job applicants. But a small business’ culture can be a powerful draw for new employees as well.

5. Creative bonuses

Small businesses generally cannot afford large bonuses. But they can be creative and, because they have less red tape, they may be able to customize their extra fringe benefits to a greater extent. That could mean rewarding a prized employee with a day off for a kayaking trip or a luxurious spa visit. That personal attention can go a long way in making an employee feel satisfied working for a small business.

The Pros of Working for a Small Company

Being employed by a small-size company offers many benefits to your career: 

·        More visibility

Work roles at small companies are often less specialized than at large firms. Plus, in a smaller organization, it's easy to interact with c-suite executives and the decision-makers. Because employees have more visibility, it is often easier to advance in a smaller organization.

·        Experience in a Variety of Areas

Because you're wearing many hats, you're likely to gain knowledge and insight beyond your role. Small company employees often gain multiple skills and areas of expertise to enhance their resume. 

·        Increased Flexibility

Small firms may also have more flexibility when it comes to considering alternative work arrangements such as flex time and job sharing. The dress code may also be more relaxed. 

·        Your Co-Workers May Be Your Friends

At smaller companies, it's common to form deep bonds with your colleagues. Collaboration opportunities abound since employees are so likely to do work that goes beyond their job description.  

·        It Offers an Entry-Point to the Industry

Working for a small company can be a good stepping-stone to a larger employer in the same field.

The Cons of Working for a Small Company

But it's not all rosy. Here are some potential downsides to employment at small companies: 

·        There May Not Be Many Career-Building Perks

Small firms may have fewer formal training programs, and their benefits packages can be more limited. Some HR processes (like maternity leave policy, for instance) may not be set up, which can be challenging. 

·        Sometimes, Your Growth Will Be Limited

The option to transfer to other departments may be limited or non-existent. You may also encounter less opportunity for growth and promotion at a small firm, and most likely, there will be fewer people who can serve as mentors. Plus, at a smaller company, if you do not get along with your co-workers, avoiding them may be difficult.  

·        Smaller Companies Can Be Unknown Entities

A large company often comes with known workplace culture and reputation. That can be helpful when you apply to your next role — recruiters and hiring managers will be familiar with your current company. With smaller companies, you may find yourself spending time in your interview explaining the company, rather than talking about your accomplishments. 

In general, if you prefer structure ahead of flexibility, a larger company may be a better fit.  


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