Big Breaks At Small Companies

The country's largest employers receive tens of thousands of resumes each year. The reason why they are inundated with resumes is clear -- many of the Fortune 500 companies have become household names, and quickly come to mind when job seekers think of places to work. It is a natural inclination to want to get in with one of the "big guys." But, as many professionals have found, the opportunities are often just as lucrative -- if not more so -- at small businesses and start-up companies.

Tana Torrano is the president and founder of the Organization of Small Business Owners, which provides training, support and other services to small businesses. She says that small businesses offer employees unique opportunities that cannot be found at larger employers.

At smaller companies, employees have the opportunity to learn a variety of skills and are not as tied to one certain area like they might be in a large corporation. "In a small company, most everyone wears multiple hats," she says. For budding entrepreneurs, a small business can provide a view into every aspect of running an operation. "If you ever have a desire to own a business of your own, you should start at a small company." You might have a better chance to express your ideas, work on major projects and develop your skills in a smaller, more close-knit atmosphere. And, many employees who started their careers with a small business find themselves leading the way when the company becomes a not-so-small operation. "You have an opportunity to get in on the ground floor," Torrano says. "When the company grows, you end up being one of the top executives." While some job seekers prefer the perks and benefits they find at the nation's largest employers, small businesses also offer perks that can't be found at a major corporation. "With a small company, you can really go in and negotiate your opportunity," Torrano says. She points out that smaller businesses offer benefits like flex time or casual work environments, which are becoming more and more attractive to many workers.

So how do you go about finding small businesses in your field? Torrano offers the following tips: Know where to find your targets. Monitor your local news closely, particularly business news, to learn about small companies that are enjoying success. Look for companies that are signing new contracts, attracting new customers or winning awards. You should also look for companies through the Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Administration and professional associations.

Become an active participant. If you want to really learn about potential employers, you need to put yourself in the community. "Most of the professional associations allow you to come to their meetings," Torrano says. Attend networking luncheons and other events, such as Rotary Club meetings. You can find out about upcoming events in your local business publication.

Find an "In." "Find someone who knows you who can make introductions for you to other business owners," Torrano says. If you really want to get in at a company, ask everyone in your network of contacts to find someone who can go to bat for you there. Chances are you will find someone who knows an employee. Torrano even suggests having one of your contacts write a letter of introduction to the company you are targeting.

Do your research and demonstrate your knowledge. It is important to learn as much as you can about your target companies. Look at their Web sites, read their press releases, and conduct a news search. Then, put your knowledge to use. Call the owner and talk to him or her about the business's needs. Let them know how you fit in their picture and what you can do for them. "Make it personal," Torrano says. "Otherwise, you're trying to do the same thing that telemarketers do when they call you at dinner." At the end of the day, the opportunities at small and large businesses might be different, but the rules for getting hired are very similar. Do your research, network, demonstrate your value to the potential employer, and follow up diligently. If you follow these rules, you might just find a golden opportunity at a small company that really lets you shine.

Copyright 2005 CareerBuilder.com.

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