Internship in a start-up or in a large company? 5 keys to making the right choice
Choosing between an internship in a start-up or a large company is a bit like choosing between an improvised road trip and an all-inclusive trip. Two completely different experiences, with their own advantages and challenges! Before you go, take a moment to think about what really fits your expectations and your way of working. Here are five key criteria that should help you see more clearly.
💡 Need a helping hand? Take a look at our guide to choosing the right internship and orient your search strategically!
1. Level of responsibility and autonomy
Start-up 🚀: You'll be thrown into the deep end very quickly! In start-ups, you often wear several hats, which allows you to learn on the job and acquire a variety of skills. If you like to have autonomy, try new things and see the impact of your work directly, this is an experience that can be ultra rewarding.
Large company 🏢: In large companies, positions are often well defined and structured, offering an organized and reassuring environment. Support is generally more supervised, with tutors and dedicated training. If you value an environment where learning is progressive and want to evolve in a more predictable environment alongside experienced professionals, this could be a good option for you.
2. Work environment and company culture
Start-up 🎉: Dynamic atmosphere, strong team spirit, flexibility, proximity to the founders... If you're looking for a casual environment where your ideas can be heard and implemented quickly, the start-up is a good choice. The hierarchy is often flat and the spirit of initiative is very much appreciated!
Large company 💼: Here, the hierarchy is more pronounced, which can make decision-making slower. On the other hand, everything is well organized with clear processes. Ideal if you like well-oiled structures and want to build a solid network within a large group.
3. Opportunities for development and career
Start-up 🌱: If the start-up is growing and you are invested, the opportunities for development can be quick! Less rigidity, more chances to rise to responsibility quickly. On the other hand, getting a contract following your internship can be more uncertain. Unlike large companies that often have well-established recruitment plans for interns, hiring in a start-up is highly dependent on the needs of the moment and the financial health of the company.
Large companies 📈: Large companies generally have more internal resources and opportunities, increasing your chances of being hired at the end of your internship. If you are looking for a structured career with training and internal mobility, this is a good choice. But be careful, climbing the ladder can sometimes take longer!
👉 Spoiler: There are great opportunities on both sides! It all depends on the company, its evolution and your ability to stand out.
4. Diversity of missions and skills acquired
Start-up 🔄: Get ready to touch everything! Marketing, business development, communication, project management... Due to their small size, start-ups often expect their interns to be highly versatile. Ideal if you want to acquire maximum skills in record time.
Large company 🎯: Assignments are more focused, allowing for in-depth expertise in a specific area. You will often work on large-scale projects, but with a more marked specialization.
5. Coaching and Learning
Start-ups 🤹: Learning is often done on the job, with direct immersion in current projects. You have to know how to be autonomous and look for information by yourself. Need help? All you have to do is talk to the team, observe, ask questions (even the ones that seem silly, they are often the most useful!) and experiment. No assigned tutor or turnkey manual, but an accessible team and a framework where everything is learned on the job.
Large companies 📚: The support is more structured, with tutors, internal training and regular follow-up. There is always someone to answer questions, and the courses are designed to promote a gradual increase in skills. If you prefer to learn in a well-defined setting, this is a real plus!
So, what do you choose?
In the end, it all depends on your aspirations! If you want autonomy, diversity and a dynamic environment, go for a start-up. If you prefer a structured framework, stability and more supervised learning, the large company will be a good choice. Think about the environment in which you will thrive best and that best aligns with your career ambitions. And if you're really hesitating... Why not try both? 😉
Happy thinking and good internship! 🚀
Find an internship that suits you with Meet My Job!
At Meet My Job, we select internship opportunities in committed companies, mainly start-ups and innovative SMEs. If you are looking for an enriching experience with a concrete positive impact, explore our offers and find the internship that is right for you!
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