When you’re thinking about your next role in tech, the type of company you choose will shape your day-to-day experience just as much as the role itself. You might be considering whether a start-up or a large corporation is the right fit. Both offer opportunities, but in very different ways — and the answer depends on what you want from your career.
What It’s Like to Work in a Start-Up
In a start-up, no two days feel the same. Teams are smaller, and you’re likely to get involved in projects beyond your official job description.
You might enjoy it if you want:
- Variety and the chance to build new skills quickly.
- Decisions to move fast, with little red tape.
- To see the direct impact of your work on the company’s growth.
But it can also mean:
- Less certainty about long-term stability.
- Longer hours and higher expectations when deadlines are tight.
- Less structure around training and career progression – you often need to create your own path.
What It’s Like to Work in a Large Corporation
A large organisation offers more structure and predictability. Roles are often more clearly defined, and there are established processes to follow.
You might value it if you want:
- A sense of security, with clear benefits and stability.
- A defined path for progression, with access to training and mentoring.
- The chance to collaborate with bigger teams and build global networks.
But you may also find:
- Projects move more slowly due to more layers of approval.
- Your role is more specialised, with less variety.
- It’s harder to see the individual impact of your work.
Choosing What Works for You
Think about what motivates you most right now. Do you want variety, responsibility, and the buzz of working in a smaller team? Or do you prefer stability, structure, and opportunities to grow within a bigger organisation?
There’s no right or wrong answer – it’s about what matters most to you at this stage of your career.
At Reperio, we work with both start-ups and large corporations across the tech industry. If you’re weighing up your options, we can help you find an environment where you’ll thrive.