I'm thinking of moving to a smaller company because a lot of my former colleagues have moved to smaller and even startup companies. Apart from the fear of a new beginning, I have several dilemmas as to why it would be good or bad to make such a move now. It’s getting worse here every day, but at the same time it would feel odd to go to a small company after many years of working here.
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Large companies have different issues that smaller start up companies, but either way you need to have your eyes wide open be aware of what you are getting into. Some of the challenges are the same, Opportunity in either could be good, but understand what is important to you and make a decision based off of that. Go where you believe your contributions and you will be valued. While interviewing for new roles, make sure you understand the culture and ask them questions that are important to you. Always remember that you are interviewing them as well, don't just take another job, or you will end up in a TR like situation. If they are talking with you, they are obviously interested in you, don't let that conversation be a one way street.
People always think that smaller cos layoff more or are more risky than larger cos. I can tell you from experience at outplacement that the Fortune 500 layoff a lot of people. Get a job you love, work hard and become indispensable. Then, if you get laid off, take those skills and experiences elsewhere. Good luck.
Always make decisions on your career on the basis of what is best for you. Where are you at in your career? Young and just graduated college? Getting close to retirement age? Circumstances will be different depending on your goals.
Know that your experience at TR is favored by lots of other companies, but make sure that their objectives for any position you covet align with your own professional and personal goals. Maybe there are other roles at TR that are a great fit for you even with the issues TR has. Maybe it's elsewhere. Always begin with what's most important and let that guide you.
@OP+1afJiKlb - if it were me, I would compare what is good and what is not so good about the other opportunity with what you have now. Small companies mean you do more with less and can be risky to work for if they have to lay you off to reduce costs.
Why does that sound familiar?