Ways to Transition from a Large to a Smaller Company

It’s not always easy to work for a big company – especially when that big company lays you off and leaves you unwanted by smaller companies. Unfortunately, this scenario is true for too many veterans who have been let go from business giants only to be shot down by smaller companies that are intimidated by them.

While this may describe what you’re experiencing while searching for a job, it doesn’t have to be the end of the world for you. Instead, let’s take a look at some ways that you can make transitioning from a large company to a smaller one work for you.

One of the fears that smaller businesses have when considering big business vets is their ability to adapt to a smaller environment in a short period of time. Very often, larger businesses narrow down the list of responsibilities given to its employees because there are so many others to fill the roles. However, in a smaller company, the manager of a certain department may be responsible for implementing and overseeing major decisions, as well as brewing coffee in the morning.

A smaller company wants to know that a big-business vet can handle the “go-getter” attitude – not much different than that of an entrepreneur – that is required in this setting. If you want to prove that you are capable in this area, try describing one or more projects at your previous employer that required you to wear multiple hats. Taking this route can help hiring managers appreciate your ability to thrive in a multifaceted role.

Another requirement that you very often find in the smaller business – but maybe not so much in the large company – is the need to troubleshoot in a variety of areas. Again, you may have come from a company where there were 13 sales reps, and now you will be the only one. You want to show the hiring manager that despite having a crutch of 13 separate minds for brainstorming and troubleshooting sessions at your previous employer, you can do this on your own.

To show that you have the ability to problem-solve, it’s good to bring up a scenario where you were relied upon to solve what seemed to be an unsolvable problem. You can mention the people you had to work with or the files you had to search. Basically, you want to show that no matter what obstacle stood in your way, you didn’t stop until you found the answer.

If you’re seeking a job at a smaller company and you have a title that sounds bigger than it is (ex. Vice President of Human Resources may actually be considered a midlevel management position), it doesn’t hurt to omit the title altogether. When you get to the interview, you can tell the hiring manager your title and explain at the same time what the title actually means.