When choosing a new job, youre not just looking for the perfect role.
You also need to consider what kind of company you want to work for.
Do you want to work for a social enterprise with an inspiring mission?
Do you see yourself thriving in a company thats fully remote?
And probably the most important question is, do you want to work at astartupor join a corporation?
You may be wondering if the size of a company is really that important.
The fact is, company size impacts more than the number of desks needed in the office.
It trickles down through everything from the organizational structure to the culture.
Here we weigh up the pros and cons of both.
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Theres something really special about joining a team right on the cusp of building something new and exciting.
Working alongside highly motivated individuals who are passionate about what theyre doing is great.
Plus, teams are usually small so theres lots of collaboration, creativity, and bonding too.
However, these small, close-knit teams can sometimes lead to office politics and cliques.
Because the teams are larger and more defined, they often have a more professional atmosphere.
Of course, corporate companies are not immune to their fair share of office politics.
They often have steeper hierarchies and more bureaucracy.
And any sort of change can take A LOT of time.
Autonomy and risk
Do you enjoy having complete autonomy over your work?
Then joining an early-stage company could be a good move for you.
However, startups are synonymous with risk.
They often have high-pressure work environments.
All it takes is one big mistake for the company to fail.
After all, statistically, 90% of startups will not be successful.
you better be comfortable with that number and do what it takes to beat the odds.
On the other hand, established companies tend to have more routine, set structures and less risk.
You wont have as much autonomy over your work.
Youll probably be assigned tasks by your manager and work to strict deadlines and KPIs.
However, if you mess up in a corporate job, theres always plan B.
Some people thrive in this security.
But its important to remember that theyre the exception and not the rule.
Corporations are a bit more established financially.
They arent dependent on fundraising rounds or negotiations.
They also have more cash available for hiring which means they often employ highly qualified candidates.
While nobusinessis 100% safe, lots of people prefer the financial security of a corporate role.
In a corporate job, things tend to be a little bit more structured.
However, corporations are still lagging behind startups when it comes to remote working opportunities and flexible hours.
Impact
Every employee has a powerful impact when working for a startup.
As part of a small but dedicated team, youll have access to founders and other key leaders.
You also have the opportunity to influence big decisions and shape policy going forward.
Its important to note that growth at a startup is not always linear.
Your impact at a corporation will look a little different.
You wont be able to have your say on every aspect of the business.
Its all about weighing up your priorities and deciding whats really important to you.
Do you want a clearly defined career path or are you happy to chart your own course?
Do you want lots of creativity and freedom or would you prefer to have set boundaries and tasks?
By answering these questions youll be able to find a role where you’re free to thrive.
Story byPippa Hardy
Pippa is content creator and writer for Amply by Jobbio.
Shes a work-from-home enthusiast who loves all things travel and tech.
When shes(show all)Pippa is content creator and writer for Amply by Jobbio.
Shes a work-from-home enthusiast who loves all things travel and tech.
When shes not writing up her next article, shes usually hiking or spending a whole afternoon on Pinterest.
