Choosing the right company

There's a vast range of potential employers out there, from small start-ups to the biggest multinationals. Which type best suits you is for you to decide, based on your personality, your likes and dislikes and, of course, your experience. If you're unsure, take the time to do as much research as you can.

Get on your favourite search engine and check out terms like 'FTSE 100' for the big boys, 'best employers' for lists of companies with the top working conditions, or specialist terms that apply to you like 'single mother' or 'multi-lingual employees'. Use your imagination and don't forget to ask around friends and relatives for ideas on companies they either work for or with to see if they can think of any that might suit you.

There are three main types of businesses that you can work for in the private sector, each with it's own pros and cons:

• Small companies
Due to their smaller revenues and profits, pay and benefits are often lower in smaller companies. You may also be working in a less secure environment as the business doesn't have the stability to think in the long term. Many small business owners tend to micro-manage their operations, finding it hard to let go and delegate responsibility.

On the other hand, you'll almost certainly have more involvement in a wider range of tasks than in a bigger company, along with the chance of quick promotion if you prove yourself. Working for a small company is also an excellent way of acquiring new, transferable skills.

• Medium sized companies
You can expect to receive better benefits than in a small company, such as health care or a contributory pension. With a relatively small number of employees, there is often more flexibility in their pay structure so they can individually tailor financial packages. Medium sized businesses will be acutely aware of their bottom line, making hiring and firing decisions on the basis of clear financial goals.

They can be very demanding employees, with a high expectation that you will do whatever it takes, including long hours and changing levels of responsibility. There will be opportunities to put variety into your work, but not as much as in a small company. Often, due to the shallow organisational structure, the potential for advancement is very limited.

• Large companies
The biggest plus with a large company is usually security and benefits, together with ample opportunity to move your career in the direction you want. Due to the large number of employees they have to look after, pay structures are often quite strict although due to their large financial backing, the starting wages are usually very generous.

They can be more impersonal and bureaucratic and lack the sense of a common goal or being part of a team that smaller companies offer. Large companies tend to hire people with specific skills to fit into specific roles, so don't expect a lot of variety in your role.

If you are at all unsure about what you're getting into, it's a good idea to arrange a trial period before committing yourself. An internship or temporary position offers the perfect opportunity to get a feel for people and the company. Part-time work is also an option, as it gives you the chance to try out two companies at once.

Alongside these groups, charities and public sector organisations also operate, again with their own pros and cons. One thing you will find when working for this type of business is that every penny spent must be justified, as they are ultimately accountable to people making charitable donations or the taxpayer.

Staying out of trouble
There are good places to work and there are awful places to work. Big companies with sexy offices can act as a smokescreen for a ferociously competitive business that you might find intimidating. Ask around, do your research and use your common sense.

Never be afraid to follow your instincts if a company doesn't feel right. You'll have to live with your decision if you get it wrong, so learn to read the warning signs. What happened to your predecessor? Promotion or P45? Watch how your interviewers behave during your meeting - if there's tension in the air, it might be the sign of things to come.

Right company, wrong location
If you're willing to cast your net wide in the search for the right employer, you may come across the perfect match, but at the other end of the country. Relocating for work is a big decision for anyone, but if you value your career and want to make the most of every opportunity, then it may be a necessary step. The Internet has made it easy to stay in contact with your friends, and you're likely to make many more in your new surroundings.