Working For Big Technical Firms: Yay or Nay?

When pondering a career within a large technical company, it’s crucial to evaluate the pro’s and the con ‘s – just like anything, it isn’t for everyone!

On the positive side, organisations like these are known for providing those high salaries, benefits, and cool incentives to their employees, with the chance to contribute to innovative projects advancing your career. 
However, working in big firms also brings about potential drawbacks you may want to consider before you take the plunge. Things like company culture may be inflexible, and you may feel like another face in the crowd or a mere number on the list.

Ultimately, the decision of what matters most to you in your career is in your hands, we just hope to provide you with that slight bit of extra info just to nudge you in the right direction!

PROS

•    Opportunities for career advancement: Big technical companies often have clear career paths and opportunities for growth, including promotions and opportunities to move into different departments or roles.
• Competitive compensation and benefits: Larger companies are often able to offer higher salaries, better benefits packages, and other perks such as stock options, 401(k) matching, and tuition reimbursement.
• Access to cutting-edge technology: Big technical companies typically invest heavily in research and development, which means employees may have the opportunity to work with the latest tools, equipment, and software.
• Collaboration and networking opportunities: Working for a big technical company can provide access to a vast network of colleagues and industry professionals, which can lead to valuable collaborations and partnerships.
• Prestige and brand recognition: Many big technical companies are household names and have established reputations for innovation and excellence, which can enhance an employee's professional reputation and resume.
• Training and development: Big technical companies often provide extensive training and development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and courses, to help employees stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in their field.

CONS
 
While working for a big technical company can offer many advantages, there are also potential downsides:
 
• Bureaucracy and slow decision-making: Big companies can be hindered by bureaucracy and red tape, which can slow down decision-making and make it difficult to implement new ideas or initiatives.
•   Lack of autonomy: Due to the size and complexity of big companies, employees may have less autonomy and decision-making power than they would in a smaller organization.
• Risk of becoming a small cog in a big machine: In a big company, it can be easy to feel like a small cog in a big machine, with little visibility or impact on the company's overall success.
• More rigid corporate culture: Big companies often have more rigid corporate cultures, which can be difficult to navigate and may not align with an employee's personal values or work style.
• Increased competition for advancement: While big companies offer opportunities for career advancement, the competition for these opportunities can be intense, with many highly qualified candidates vying for the same roles.
• Potential for layoffs or restructuring: Big companies may be more vulnerable to economic downturns or changes in the market, which can lead to layoffs or restructuring.

So, reducing this down to a simple circuit (seen as though we are a tech recruitment firm), working for a big technical company can offer many advantages and opportunities for both personal and professional growth.
However, it can come with its own set of challenges! Bureaucracy, lack of autonomy, and a rigid corporate culture are just a few you might not have thought of.

It's important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether a big company is the right fit for you. Get in touch with one of our pro’s for more information, we might just have the perfect career path for you!