Working for a small business offers a unique experience that is often quite different from working for a large corporation. And while London is home to many large businesses, it is awash with much smaller ones. Working for a small business can provide opportunities for growth, a close-knit team environment, and the chance to make a real impact. But it can also come with its own set of challenges.
We spoke to several candidates who work in various office support roles to get their take on what it’s really like to work for a small business.
· A close-knit team
One of the most common things people mention about working for a small business is the sense of camaraderie among the team. Elody, who works as an office administrator, said, “When you’re part of a small team, you get to know everyone really well. It feels more like a family than just a job. We all support each other, and that makes the workplace much more enjoyable.”
This sense of community can be a major benefit. Small businesses often foster strong relationships between colleagues, which can lead to a more supportive and positive work environment.
· Diverse responsibilities
In a small business, you’re likely to wear many hats. This can be exciting for those who enjoy variety in their work. “I’m never bored,” said Derek, who works in sales and marketing for a small company. “I get to handle everything. It’s great because I’m always learning new things.”
For those who like a challenge and the chance to develop new skills, working in a small business can be highly rewarding. The lack of rigid role boundaries allows for more flexibility and personal growth. “It’s a great way to build experience quickly,” added Derek.
· Making a real impact
Many candidates appreciate the opportunity to make a significant impact on the business. Zoe, who works as a personal assistant in a small marketing firm, explained, “In a small company, you can really see the results of your work. When I organise a client meeting or streamline our processes, it directly affects the business. It’s satisfying to know I’m making a difference.”
For people who thrive on seeing the immediate impact of their work, small businesses provide an ideal environment. Your contributions aren’t lost in the shuffle, and you can take pride in seeing tangible results.
· Challenges of limited resources
One of the main challenges of working for a small business is dealing with limited resources. Suheyla noted, “Sometimes it can be tough because we don’t have the same resources as larger companies. There are days when I have to troubleshoot issues myself or come up with creative solutions because we don’t have an IT department.”
Working with limited resources teaches problem-solving and independence. For some, this challenge is an opportunity to grow and become more resourceful.
· Career progression in small businesses
One concern candidates sometimes have is whether a small business can offer enough career progression. Jamal, an office manager, shared his thoughts: “I was worried about the lack of clear career paths at first, but in reality, small businesses can be great for progression. You get promoted faster if you show initiative, and there’s often more room to carve out your own role.”
Working for a small business can be a highly rewarding experience. With the help of the best recruitment agency in London (that’s us!), you can find a small business that matches your skills and career goals.
Register as a candidate.