If you’re looking for a role in property, a glance at the vacancies on s1jobs can make this sector seem more varied than Granny Ina’s homemade selection boxes (think macaroon bars alongside gravy-centred dumplings).
This is because it takes in a huge range of companies, from one-man estate agencies to large commercial property management firms and everything in between.
So, what are the pros and cons of working in a corporate environment versus a smaller firm? Let’s find out.
Working in a corporate firm
Pros
Big firms are large-scale businesses that usually boast several offices across the country, if not the world. The opportunities for moving around, in your role and geographically, are second to none.
They also offer staff benefits, such as a good pension scheme, childcare vouchers and holiday entitlement. Some businesses even invest in crèches and on-site gyms (non-compulsory!).
Training and upskilling are big attractions. Whether in-house or external, this is likely to be ongoing throughout your career.
Cons
Some people find the corporate environment slightly impersonal, as you’ll probably report to several senior managers, not just one. It can also take longer for your cunning plans to be actioned for the same reason.
At the beginning of your career, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. A good line manager should address this however.
‘Corporate’ standards of behaviour are expected at all times. If you’re not allowed to break into your comedy robot walk or Bo Selecta impersonations, you might feel stifled.
Working in a small, independent firm
Pros
If you’re a natural Jack or Jill of all trades, who likes a number of different roles, you’ll enjoy the dynamics of a smaller company. Often, it’s a case of everyone pitching in and having a flexible attitude.
Working within a smaller team makes for strong working relationships and, hopefully, good office banter.
If you have good ideas, you’re more likely to be heard.
Cons
To move up the career ladder you may have to leave the company. The role may simply not exist at a small firm or it may be the person currently doing that job loves it and has no intention of leaving.
Profit margins may be smaller so financial benefits may not be as generous as those of bigger firms . . . although, for someone as good as you, there are always exceptions!
Big and small, check out all the Property roles with s1jobs. Take a look at Scotland’s largest property site at s1homes.com, with over 30,000 homes to buy and rent.