Big Company vs Small Company: Which Is Better for Your Career in Malaysia?

Not sure if you should work at a big company or a small business in Malaysia? Here’s how to decide which environment best suits your career goals, learning style, and personal growth.

By Matt Khoo on 2025-03-24 at 6:28 AM

Updated on 2025-03-24 at 6:29 AM

Confused about whether to join a big company or a small one?

You’re not the only one weighing the pros and cons. To help jobseekers figure it out, Hiredly’s VP of People & Culture, Joselyn Lau, joined the CITYPlus podcast with hosts Crystal and Jessie to unpack what really matters when choosing the right company size for your career.

With over 10 years of experience in recruitment and HR, Joselyn shares practical insights on career growth, learning opportunities, and how to decide what’s right for you.

Let’s break down her take on the big company vs. small company debate—so you can make a choice that fits your goals.

1. What’s the Difference Between Big and Small Companies?

According to Joselyn, the key difference comes down to structure vs flexibility.

Big Companies (MNCs & Corporations):
✅ More stability, resources, and structured processes.
✅ Great for building your resume and industry credibility.
✅ Clear career paths and generous benefits.

Small Companies (Startups & SMEs):
✅ Broader exposure to multiple roles and responsibilities.
✅ Opportunities to be involved in decision-making early on.
✅ Faster learning curves and more creative freedom.

📖 Related Read: Why You Should Join a Startup

2. Unsure What You Want? Internships Can Help

If you’re still figuring things out, Joselyn recommends testing both environments during your internship.

💡 “Some university students have to complete two internships—try doing one at a big company and one at a smaller one,” she suggests. “It helps you discover what kind of environment fits you best before entering the workforce.”

📖 Related Read: Best Ways to Land an Internship in Malaysia

3. What Should Fresh Grads Focus On?

Joselyn encourages fresh grads to first build broad exposure before choosing a specialization.

💬 “If you’re not sure what you want to do, go into an environment where you can learn a little bit of everything. Once you know your strength, then narrow your focus.”

That said, there’s no one-size-fits-all path. Joselyn herself started out by specialising in recruitment for seven years before expanding her skill set to cover all of HR.

4. Does Choosing a Big Company First Matter?

Many job seekers are drawn to big names—and Joselyn admits she once was too.

💬 “When I graduated, I didn’t know what I wanted yet. But I saw everyone going into big companies, so I followed. It helped my resume early on.”

However, she reminds us that company size isn’t everything. What matters more is what you learn, how you grow, and the value you bring—regardless of the company’s size.

5. What If You Pick the "Wrong" Path?

Joselyn assures: there’s no such thing as a dead-end choice.

💡 “Even if you join an industry or company that isn’t the best fit, the experience teaches you what you don’t want—which is equally important.”

For example, one of her team members originally studied to become a teacher. After an internship, they realized teaching wasn’t for them—and pivoted to a successful career in HR.

Explore top job opportunities on Hiredly, join the Young Talent Community to network and grow, and take the Hiredly Work Personality Test to uncover jobs that match your unique strengths.

Listen to the full CITYPlus FM podcast episode

By Matt Khoo on 2025-03-24 at 6:28 AM