Feeling Stuck in a Small Company: Is It Time for a Career Move to Boost Growth?

Hi all,

Presently, I am working with a small-sized IT company with a headcount of 10-15 people. I am the only HR personnel here. Previously, I worked as an HR Executive with the largest broking house in India, where I was employed for 14 months. Before that, I was working at the largest domestic call center as a Customer Care Executive (CCE). I have recently joined this current company. Due to personal concerns, I had to accept a very nominal hike. Now, I am a bit confused as I have shifted from working with well-known brands to a very small company. I am concerned about any potential negative impact this move may have on my future. Additionally, I am not finding much enjoyment in my current role here as there is a lack of substantial work, and the recruitment process is notably slow. The team size (total number of employees) is also very small.

Therefore, I am considering looking for better opportunities that align with my professional growth. It's important to note that I am not solely seeking a job change for monetary reasons. I aim to work in a larger company to keep my intellectual and decision-making skills sharp. More people mean more challenges, more queries, and more opportunities for skill development.

Seeking Guidance on Career Move

Seniors, I would appreciate your suggestions and guidance on whether my thoughts are correct. I am contemplating a job change now as I believe it's not too late. If I continue working here for another 1-2 months, I may feel compelled to stay with this company for at least 2-3 years for stability.

Do you think it's the right time to switch jobs, or should I wait?

Thank you.

Job Switching: Monetary vs. Knowledge-Based Reasons

Many switch jobs for monetary considerations only. Very few switch for job knowledge and to take on challenging roles. This is a fact.

Impact of Frequent Job Changes

Changing jobs frequently does not add many credentials to your CV, and you may be branded as a job hopper. For anyone who has joined a company, the initial 2-4 months are a stabilization period that may or may not meet their expectations. Wait for some more time to analyze.

Regards,
Pon, Chennai

Dear Pon, I have already clarified that I am not looking for a change due to financial reasons. It's all about learning and skills development. I am not working for money as I come from a family of businessmen. I chose a job over business because I wanted to explore myself.

I am not saying that this company is not good; I just don't want to lose my brand value. Moreover, I have worked with 800 people and 125 people in both offices, but here the team size is much smaller.

Regards,
Lavika

Hi Lavika, as per my views, we are in the support department, and we have to provide services to our employees. At the start of a career, the most important point is learning, which means understanding how much area you are taking care of. For me, if you work for a big brand, then you will have a limited area to work and perform. However, in a small company, you may be responsible for looking after the entire HR area.

Regards,
Bhupendra Agrahari
HR Specialist

Size Does Not Matter

I would rather be a drop of water in a glass than be a drop in the ocean. One should look into the roles, responsibilities, and job knowledge.

For example, I was in a top 10 company with a turnover of 5 billion USD. Now I am in a small company with a turnover of 50 million USD. I am comfortable with the small company; at least my performance is recognized.

I do not agree with you. While joining this company, didn't you know it is a small company? Why did you join if you always wanted to work with a bigger firm? If it is a small company, as HR, it is your duty to introduce new policies and procedures. You can do a lot of things here; there is a lot of learning when you join a startup or a small team company. You can do a lot of trial and error as no one will question you, which in return will enhance your knowledge. But from your replies, I feel that you have made up your mind to change the job.

I have already mentioned that changing jobs was due to some family concerns. I have posted this query for suggestions. If I had made up my mind, I wouldn't need to ask anybody. My query is, is it career-destructive to work with a small company? If I have to move to some senior profiles where I would be handling 1000-1200 people, wouldn't this experience be a minus point?

Simple question.

Regards,
Lavika

Small or big, it is not a question of the type of company but rather, what matters is the work you have done and the kind of case studies you can share in your next job interview. In fact, decision-making in small companies is faster.

In addition to HR, you may venture into an administration role. Learn about purchase management and negotiation with suppliers. Trust me, if you master these skills, you will earn the trust of the Managing Director more than anyone else. Regarding activities beyond operations, strive to become the right hand to the MD. It is possible to rise to this level in a small company. For example, please refer to my response in the following post:

https://www.citehr.com/487371-risk-a...ml#post2133746

The above is not a direct HR activity but an administrative one. However, there is nothing wrong in doing it if it saves the company's finances.

Secondly, you may engage in the proper maintenance of the Fixed Asset Register (FAR). Click the following link to understand the implications when assets are accurately recorded:

https://www.citehr.com/485413-employ...illegally.html

Whether in HR or any other role, every employee works to protect the company's interests. You can contribute in any capacity possible. Perhaps, you will excel more than those engaged solely in clerical HR functions!

All the best!

Regards,
Dinesh V Divekar

According to me, there won’t be a negative impact on your career if you can prove your capability and gain some knowledge. You will have experience working under pressure with limited resources.

As other senior members have rightly said, since it is a small company, you will have many chances to introduce new policies and practices. Here, your experience working in a big company will help you.

As long as you have confidence in your capabilities and skills, you should not be worried. I am surprised why this question has arisen after joining the new company, as nobody must have forced your decision to join. You should have thought about that before. Now that you have joined, you should take this as a challenge for yourself.

All the best.

Regards,
Trusha

Who said people who work in a small company have their careers destroyed? Whether a company is small or big, they still need HR. They have queries, they want to engage employees, and they need someone to take care of grievances, etc. Please take this idea out of your head. I have seen people working in small companies excel in their fields. You never know, you could be next. The decision is yours; you can make the call.

Deciding Between Large and Small Companies

Deciding whether to go with a large or small brand company should actually be one of the most important decisions you make while job hunting. It largely depends on:

- What you hope to accomplish.
- How you work best in an organization.

Though there are almost no universal truths in this area, here are some thoughts:

Advantages of Working at a Big Company

- The benefits packages are better.
- You have a more obvious structure.
- You can switch jobs without leaving the company, as it is possible to change positions and explore new areas.

Disadvantages of a Big Company

- Changes happen slowly.
- Your fulfillment can be determined by your surroundings.

Advantages of a Small Company

- Your success is visible.
- Your company is more agile.
- Your responsibilities may be more varied.

Disadvantages of a Small Company

- The benefits package might be lesser.
- Your failures are directly visible.
- Job security might be a concern.
- There may not be structured Legal or HR departments, so initial efforts are needed in setting up things.

Accept the assignment with complete trust and confidence in your skills and knowledge. All the best.

Regards,
Sonal Tandon
Navi Mumbai

Your struggle with your inner self is something that the majority of individuals experience in their careers at some point. This is common, and there is no real problem here.

The Buzzword in HR: 'Change'

These days, the buzzword in HR is 'Change'; transitioning from an HR role to other functional roles. This kind of shift will enhance business acumen and introduce some technical skills to HR professionals, enabling them to better connect with the business. Selection panels often seek diversity in CVs, focusing not only on 'Change' but also on 'Adaptability'. I agree with Dinesh Divekar that acquiring skills in different areas will be beneficial in the long run.

Recruitment Practices of Large Companies

However, we should also consider the recruitment practices of large companies if targeting them. Some companies specifically value candidates who have previously worked for reputable organizations, believing they possess the necessary grooming and expertise. It's important to note that not all companies share this perspective.

Recommendations for Career Growth

Therefore, I recommend continuing to accept various job opportunities, even if they fall outside your domain expertise. Seek guidance from others, keep learning, and concurrently apply for positions at esteemed companies. Your willingness to prioritize the right company over salary constraints gives you an advantage. Additionally, being open to working in different locations can increase your chances of selection. Stay positive and proceed with your plans. Good luck!

Regards,
Nanda

HR Job Functions Across Different Company Sizes

As far as HR jobs are concerned, the function of HR remains the same, irrespective of the team size. In a large-sized company, you may have to conduct 10,000-20,000 appraisals annually, but in a small-sized company, you need to manage only 40-50 appraisals. In both cases, the performance appraisal work will be the same, but in a large company, the workload will be greater. It is always better to "become a big shot in a small office than a small fly in a big office"!

Thanks,
R K Nair