When it comes to choosing your next role, or even the first job on your career journey, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to the type of company to approach. One of the main decisions, not matter how long you’ve been working in tax, is whether to progress your career at a large or a small tax firm.

Choosing between the two can be a difficult decision, as both options have their advantages and disadvantages. We work with candidates of all experience levels, qualifications, skillsets, work-life balances, salary grades, regions and working styles – it’s true when they say no one size fits all. But there are some ways you can help narrow down your decision, by looking at the benefits of companies of different size and scale.

Benefits of working in a large tax firm

RESOURCES
Large tax firms typically have greater resources, such as more staff, technology, and a larger client base. This can provide employees with more opportunities to work on complex tax issues and gain a wider range of experience.

SPECIALIST AREAS
Large tax firms may have more specialised teams that focus on specific areas of tax, such as international tax, transfer pricing, or mergers and acquisitions. This can provide employees with opportunities to develop an expertise and work on challenging projects.

CLIENT VARIATIONS
Large tax firms often have a larger client base, which can provide employees with more opportunities to network and be involved in work for different types of business.

PROGRESSION
Large tax firms may have more opportunities for career progression, with clearly defined paths for promotion and development. This can provide employees with a clear career trajectory and greater opportunities to progress.

BRAND POWER
Large tax firms often have a well-established brand and reputation, which can be beneficial in attracting clients and building relationships in the industry.

Benefits of working in a small tax firm

GREATER CONTROL

Small tax firms often provide employees with greater autonomy and control over their work, allowing them to take ownership of their projects and develop their skills independently.

CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS
In a small tax firm, employees may have more opportunities to build personal relationships with clients and provide a more personalised service.

COLLABORATION
Small tax firms often have a close-knit team environment, with fewer hierarchies and more opportunities to collaborate with colleagues.

FLEXIBILITY
Small tax firms may be more flexible in terms of work hours and work arrangements, allowing employees to better balance their work and personal lives.

BEING PART OF SUCCESS
In a small tax firm, employees may have greater opportunities to make an impact and contribute to the success of the business. This can be motivating and rewarding for employees who are looking for a more entrepreneurial and innovative work environment.

The decision to work in a large or a small tax firm ultimately depends on people’s individual preferences and career goals. Both options have their own unique benefits, and it is important to consider the whole range of factors, including the day-to-day work environment, the culture of the firm, and your longer-term aims.

What this all adds up to is the real need to work with specialist recruiters when you’re thinking about your next role. At Taylor Hawkes, we help connect candidates with opportunities that do more than match on paper – and when it comes to big versus small, there’s plenty to think about that could make a real difference to your decision.