Working for an SME

Advantages of working for an SME as a graduate

There are so many advantages of why it is worth considering working in an SME as a graduate - here are just a few:

• Broader exposure to a variety of responsibilities: In SMEs, employees often wear multiple hats. Working on different aspects of the business will give you a well-rounded experience and a deeper understanding of how the business functions.
• Team collaboration: Working in a smaller team can create a more supportive and collaborative atmosphere. 
• Personal relationships: In SMEs, the hierarchy is often flatter, meaning you can directly interact with the leadership or founders. This can make you feel more connected to the company and its mission and is a good opportunity for mentoring and learning.
• Impactful role: You’re more likely to be given more responsibility early on. The impact of your work is more noticeable, and you can see how your efforts directly affect the success of the company.
• Ownership: There is a chance you will be handling significant projects or tasks early in your career, and this sense of responsibility can be highly rewarding and confidence-building.
• Greater influence in decision-making: SMEs often value new ideas and innovation, so you may have the opportunity to contribute creative solutions that impact the company’s direction.
• Stronger company culture: There’s often a closer-knit culture where employees are more aligned with the company’s mission and values
• Flexibility and work-life balance: Some SMEs are more flexible than larger companies when it comes to work hours, remote working, or other lifestyle considerations.
• Industry connections and network: SMEs often have closer relationships with their clients and suppliers, which could give you valuable connections to industry professionals to build your network.
• Entrepreneurial mindset: You’re likely to be in an environment where everyone is focused on growth and success and this mindset can help you develop problem-solving skills.
• Job satisfaction, sense of accomplishment and impact: In smaller teams, your contribution can be directly tied to the company's achievements, which can lead to a greater sense of job satisfaction. Your hard work can be seen and appreciated more quickly.

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Where to look for jobs at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sheffield

Local directories / online platforms

• Career Connect
• Made in Sheffield lists businesses from different sectors, many of which are SMEs
• Sheffield Digital lists tech-related SMEs in the region

Social media and company websites

• LinkedIn: SMEs often use LinkedIn to advertise roles. Consider following companies in Sheffield that you're interested in and joining local LinkedIn groups
• Instagram: Some SMEs advertise opportunities on their profile. Follow those you are interested in working for to be first to hear of any opportunities
• Check out the “careers” or “jobs” pages on the websites of employers you're interested in. Many SMEs post jobs here first, before listing them on larger jobs portals where they will be inundated with responses

Networking and events

• Sheffield Chamber of Commerce hosts regular networking events where you can meet SMEs looking to expand their team. This is a great way to build relationships and learn about unadvertised opportunities
• Meetups: Join business-related meetups in Sheffield (eg Sheffield Entrepreneurs, Tech Meetups, Creative Sheffield). Many local entrepreneurs and small businesses attend these events to network and may have job opportunities

Speculative outreach

• If there are small businesses you'd like to work for, consider proactively reaching out to them even if they are not currency advertising. Draft a well-written cover letter and reach out via email or LinkedIn - SMEs sometimes create roles for individuals who show initiative