Big vs. Small

I have worked for two large MNCs and one private, small company. Here let's define what big and small mean. I mean the size in headcount, and also the capital it has.

The difference between large and small companies is significant. After these years, I can summarize as follow.

Two things to note. First, everything is relative to each other. For example when I say big companies offer a stable income, this is almost true, but exceptions are common where big companies collapse and smaller companies survive for a long time.

Second, there is no clear-cut pros and cons, because a certain advantage can be a crippling disadvantage when viewed in different perspective.

Big Companies Characteristics

1. Stable income
2. Defined job scope
3. Defined company hierarchy and org chart
4. Politics could be ugly
5. Well-isolated from unrelated disciplines (e.g. engineering won't be involved in logistics)
6. More perks
7. Systematic trainings and career development available
   

Small Companies Characteristics

1. Most small companies can't survive for long if in red
2. Job scope is very broad, boils down to 'get the job done', 'sell the product', and 'get the money'.
3. Hierarchy is flatter due to the nature of its size. There are definitely small companies with org chart that can rival those of big companies', but i doubt if they can survive though
4. Again, due to its size, politics will be lesser, except if you are really a dick and step on everybody's toes
5. This is related to #2
6. Perks are variable, but generally small companies are cash strapped, ergo perks are usually lesser
7. Drink-while-you-swim-type of learning. If you are lucky, you will get mentors, or else, you are alone and need a lot of luck.
   

Question: As an employee (assuming I wish to continue to be one), which type of company I should join?

At this instance of point, I will choose a small company. Mainly because it reflects the real-world much more closely, and it keeps me honest, hungry, and paranoid. The insecurity it bestows, if used appropriately, is a powerful tool to propel one forward to keep learning.

I doubt how far I can push myself down the road to keep myself up-todate with the industry.

For now, let's go ahead with the race, where we keep running, but going nowhere.

Welcome to the era of merciless rat-race.