OpinionIs working for tech giants truly the safe bet?
Opinion
Is working for tech giants truly the safe bet?
"The belief that working for a big-name tech firm guarantees security is being challenged as companies like Intel, Amazon, and Meta cut jobs to adjust to the market," writes Lightrun's VP of HR & Operations Gal Shor. "This begs the question: for those seeking stability, professional growth, and a sense of purpose, are corporate giants really the best option?"
In recent weeks, the job market has given us a harsh reminder: no position is entirely secure, not even at the most prominent tech companies. The wave of layoffs at major corporations has left many, especially those who believed they had found a stable, long-term home in large, financially strong companies, feeling shaken. The belief that working for a big-name tech firm guarantees security is being challenged as companies like Intel, Amazon, and Meta cut jobs to adjust to the market. This begs the question: for those seeking stability, professional growth, and a sense of purpose, are these corporate giants really the best option?
Finding the right place to make an impact
One of the reasons layoffs at large companies hit so hard is that employees often feel like "just another cog in the machine." In massive organizations, it’s harder to see how your efforts directly contribute to the company’s success. This sense of disconnect can create a feeling of helplessness when layoffs strike, as individual performance sometimes seems irrelevant to the company’s overall survival.
On the other hand, smaller, growth-oriented companies, such as startups, offer employees the chance to make a more tangible impact. When working in a lean environment, employees often find themselves directly involved in projects that influence the company’s trajectory. This closeness to the decision-making process creates a deep sense of ownership. Employees are not just executing tasks; they are shaping the company’s future. The ability to see your direct contribution to success brings a sense of internal stability that transcends external market conditions.
For example, in a growing startup, a product manager might not only oversee the development of new features but also play a role in marketing decisions or customer feedback loops. This level of involvement is less common in large companies, where roles are more compartmentalized. In smaller teams, employees are empowered to act as key decision-makers, giving them a sense of purpose that can be lost in larger organizations.
The power of purpose
Economic or technological crises can shake any company, but employees who find genuine meaning in their work tend to feel more fulfilled, even during challenging times of uncertainty. In large corporations, the culture can sometimes feel impersonal, with layers of management that distance employees from the company’s broader mission. This can create a sense of detachment from the work itself, which weakens motivation during times of uncertainty.
In contrast, smaller companies and startups foster a culture where the mission is not just a distant slogan but a daily reality. The organizational culture is often more intimate and transparent, with frequent communication between leadership and employees. Workers have a front-row seat to the company’s challenges and successes, and their contributions are often publicly recognized. This sense of purpose and acknowledgment fosters resilience, helping employees tackle challenges head-on and stay motivated even when the broader market is turbulent.
At a small or mid-sized company, the CEO might frequently engage directly with teams, sharing updates on the company’s direction, challenges, and opportunities. This kind of transparent leadership creates a sense of shared purpose, motivating employees to push through difficult times because they see the role they play in the company’s story.
Growth opportunities at every turn
Employees today crave opportunities for learning and development. While large corporations may present a broad array of advancement paths, the journey to promotion can often feel slow and bureaucratic. The rigid hierarchies of large companies can make it difficult for employees to gain new skills quickly or explore new areas of interest.
In contrast, smaller companies and startups provide more immediate opportunities to stretch beyond a defined role. The dynamic nature of startups often requires employees to wear multiple hats and take on diverse responsibilities, which accelerates learning and skill-building. For example, a developer at a startup might be asked to not only build code but also contribute to product strategy, customer experience, or even marketing campaigns. This cross-functional experience builds a versatile skill set that employees can leverage throughout their careers.
Moreover, many small companies actively foster a culture of continuous learning, offering workshops, training sessions, and opportunities to take on stretch projects. In such environments, employees don’t have to wait years for formal promotions to grow; they are constantly evolving in their roles. The opportunity to learn directly from leadership or collaborate with top talent in a small, fast-moving team also provides invaluable mentorship and development, far beyond what traditional corporate training programs can offer.
Choosing opportunity over size
Ultimately, choosing the right company to work for shouldn’t hinge solely on size or reputation. What’s truly important is finding a workplace that offers the chance to make a meaningful impact, to be part of something bigger than just a job, and to grow your skills in ways that matter. Especially in times of uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to seek out companies that prioritize their employees, provide opportunities for growth, and value contributions at every level.
Companies that offer employees the chance to grow alongside them, to take ownership of their work, and to find purpose in their daily contributions are often better positioned to provide real job satisfaction and security. In a world where even tech giants face upheaval, finding a place where you can thrive and grow might just be the most secure choice of all.
Gal Shor is VP of HR & Operations at Lightrun.
