Choosing Between Big International and Small Local Companies: A Digital Marketer’s Perspective

The digital marketing landscape is rapidly evolving, offering a wide range of career choices. For a digital marketing specialist, the question often becomes: should one aim for a prominent position in a large international company or a challenging role leading an e-commerce department in a small local business?

Pros of Working in a Big International Company

A large international company can offer a stable and often structured environment, allowing for a more sclerotic and comfortable pace of work. This can be particularly appealing if one is looking for a job with a higher level of job security and benefits. Moreover, working in a big company can offer access to extensive resources, training opportunities, and a broad range of projects. Being part of a larger organization also means there are more career progression opportunities, albeit often within the framework of a more bureaucratic structure.

One of the key advantages of a big international company is the potential for internal mobility. As the saying goes, 'if you want to get to first base, keep your eye on the ball, and don’t be an over-achiever.' Moving between departments or divisions can be a way to avoid the inefficiencies and rigid structures often associated with slower-growing companies. In a large organization, the slow pace can sometimes mean a more deliberate and methodical approach to work, which can be beneficial for those who prefer detailed planning and structured tasks.

Cons of Working in a Big International Company

However, this stability and comfort come at a cost. The visibility and autonomy one might seek may be limited, especially in hierarchical and bureaucratic environments. Leadership opportunities are often fewer, and the focus is generally more on maintaining the status quo rather than driving significant change. This environment might not be suited for those who thrive in fast-paced, challenging settings or those who seek a more direct path to leadership.

Pros of Working in a Small Local Company

A smaller local company, on the other hand, can provide a more dynamic and fast-paced environment where one can often feel more visible and involved in the growth and success of the business. As a digital marketing specialist or e-commerce head, you could find yourself taking on a wide range of responsibilities, from developing and executing marketing strategies to managing day-to-day operations. This versatility is often a result of the smaller team size, where everyone needs to wear multiple hats to ensure the business's success.

The chance to wear multiple hats can lead to a broader skill set and a more diverse professional experience. With limited resources, each team member is crucial to the business's success, and this can be very rewarding for those who enjoy a hands-on, entrepreneurial approach to work. Being the head of the e-commerce department in a small company can be highly rewarding if you seek leadership positions where you have a more significant impact on the business's direction and success. You will likely be given more responsibility and opportunities to innovate and drive positive changes.

Cons of Working in a Small Local Company

Despite the benefits, working in a small local company can also present challenges. The fast pace and high workload mean you could be overwhelmed with work, particularly if the company is growing rapidly. There is no guarantee that the company will continue to grow, and you might have to face difficult decisions regarding layoffs or redundancies. Additionally, the limited resources and fewer opportunities for training or internal development can make it harder to stay current with the latest trends and technologies in digital marketing and e-commerce.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between a big international company and a small local e-commerce business depends on your personal goals and career aspirations. If you are looking for stability, comprehensive training, and career mobility within a structured environment, then a large international company might be the better fit. However, if you thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment and value visibility and contributions to the business, then a small local company could offer a more fulfilling career path.

It's worth noting that both options can be highly rewarding in different ways, and the key is to choose a path that aligns with your values, skills, and long-term career goals. Whether you choose to be a digital marketing specialist or head of e-commerce, finding the right fit is crucial for personal and professional satisfaction.