Is it better to start your career at a small or large employer? | From Dorms to Desks Podcast | ep11

College and university students, recent graduates, and others early in their careers are often attracted to employers with the strongest brand name. That makes sense as they’re far more likely to know of an Apple or Walmart than small local shop that does business only with other businesses and has a name such as J&J Manufacturing.

But employers with strong brand names are also often the largest employers. Is it better for someone early in their career to start their professional career at a small or large employer? Here are some considerations:

Large companies, particularly those in the tech industry, are the primary employers of college graduates. These organizations have well-defined hiring processes and dedicated recruitment resources, unlike many smaller businesses. For example, Google is the top employer of graduates from prestigious institutions, including all eight Ivy League schools. Amazon is another major employer, especially in states like Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Arizona.

Large companies often value diversity and inclusion. Amazon, for example, believes diversity fuels innovation and provides robust support networks for various demographic groups. A college degree is still important for many industries. Indeed, 80 percent of hiring managers surveyed said a college degree was essential for healthcare and engineering jobs. While experience is highly valued, college prestige also plays a role in hiring decisions.

Large companies also play a significant role in the global talent pool and are therefore more attractive to international students and those on temporary work visas. Amazon leads in H-1B visa applications, indicating its reliance on international talent. Other prominent H-1B visa sponsors include Cognizant, EY, Tata Consultancy Services, and Microsoft.

Overall, understanding the hiring practices, values, and scale of large companies can be beneficial for students and recent graduates navigating the job market.