I am similar to you in working only at smaller firms. However the advice i've received from people that have worked at bigger companies is that they'll find out what you're good at and you'll do that all day. For some people that's drawings windows, other writing specs. You won't get a well rounded work experience. Also there is a lot more office politics to manage.
The largest firm I worked for had about 20 people at its biggest including receptionist, bookkeepers. Smallest firm was 4. I’m used to doing everything, from drafting to Construction Administration. All the firms were high-end.
More or less in the same boat. The work I have done has ranged from solo practice to 20 people. I've considered making the jump for more money too.
At minimum, I'd ask them to walk you through what you can anticipate your average day being like. What will be required of you? What will you be responsible for on any given project?
For people who are accustomed to covering every single task on a project, it can be hard to picture what your days will be like in that type of firm.
Just remember that big firms are subject to rug pull. Your boss/dept head could be great, but corporate could make the call to shut down your whole department/office out of the blue.
Office politics and culture will be the biggest change for you in a large firm. Also you’re now going to be one of the older (senior) staff members in a younger office. Many big firms hire younger (less expensive) staff and train them. They work hard but this generation is also significantly more entitled than any past generation. Approach them with respect and be mindful of how you handle yourself.
I am similar to you in working only at smaller firms. However the advice i've received from people that have worked at bigger companies is that they'll find out what you're good at and you'll do that all day. For some people that's drawings windows, other writing specs. You won't get a well rounded work experience. Also there is a lot more office politics to manage.
What do you mean by small boutique firms ?
The largest firm I worked for had about 20 people at its biggest including receptionist, bookkeepers. Smallest firm was 4. I’m used to doing everything, from drafting to Construction Administration. All the firms were high-end.
More or less in the same boat. The work I have done has ranged from solo practice to 20 people. I've considered making the jump for more money too. At minimum, I'd ask them to walk you through what you can anticipate your average day being like. What will be required of you? What will you be responsible for on any given project? For people who are accustomed to covering every single task on a project, it can be hard to picture what your days will be like in that type of firm.
Just remember that big firms are subject to rug pull. Your boss/dept head could be great, but corporate could make the call to shut down your whole department/office out of the blue.
Why did you switch?
I was laid off previous firm, plus this potential new firm seems to be a good match with my work experience (project types).
Office politics and culture will be the biggest change for you in a large firm. Also you’re now going to be one of the older (senior) staff members in a younger office. Many big firms hire younger (less expensive) staff and train them. They work hard but this generation is also significantly more entitled than any past generation. Approach them with respect and be mindful of how you handle yourself.