Pros and Cons of Company Size

Pros and Cons of Company SizePros and Cons of Company SizeWhen you consider company size, and which one offers the best of everything - from salaries and benefits to technology and advancement opportunities - larger organizations tend to come to mind first. But for accounting professionals, one size does not fit all. Small, midsize and large firms all have their advantages and disadvantages.This quick guide will give you an idea of some of the pros and cons of working for employers of each company sizePros and cons of working for large organizationsPros Generally speaking, larger firms offer higher starting salaries and more extensive perks and benefits, such as better health insurance plans or childcare options. Lateral movement is also more of a possibility at bigger companies. If at some point youre looking to transfer to another department - or even to another city or country - a larger company will be more likely to have something suitable for you. Moreover, if you want acce ss to the most current accounting software, a big firm is likely to have it.Cons Its easier to get lost in the shuffle. You may also have to get approval from several levels of management before implementing new processes. Additionally, when it comes time for promotions, more coworkers will be competing with you to move up.Want to compare salary ranges at small, midsize and large companies? Download ur2018 Robert Half Salary Guidefor detailed salary information.How about midsize organizations?Pros Midsize firms are more likely than smaller firms to have updated technology and accounting systems, and some provide employees the potential for lateral career moves. You may also be part of a tighter-knit group of coworkers than you would be if you were at a larger firm. Midsize organizations may also offer employees more flexible work options and a bit more autonomy than larger companies do, as the chain of command is shorter.Cons Most midsize firms wont be able to compete with the salar y and benefits - or the prestige - of bigger organizations.Advantages, disadvantages of small organizationsPros Many smaller firms have a family feel, and that can be more important to some employees than a high pay scale or top-line benefits. Its also commonplace for staff members to don multiple caps throughout the day, meaning you could gain experience in areas of accounting that would be outside your purview at a larger firm.Cons If youre looking for professional development opportunities such as tuition matches or reimbursement for certification exam fees and professional memberships, youre less likely to find them here. In addition, your tech offerings are likely to be limited, and you may have to coordinate your time off around colleagues to avoid short-staffing the office.Also, if youre interested in remote work, 68 percent of CFOs at companies with more than 1,000 employees see remote work opportunities on the rise - ersatzdarsteller the percentage of CFOs at companies w ith 20 to 49 employees (34 percent).Stay up to date on whats happening in accounting and financeSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTEREditors note This post was updated recently to reflect more current information.