Work for an SME

Working for Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

SMEs, defined as having less than 250 employees, are thriving in various industries like:

• finance
• manufacturing
• media
• IT.

With a well-written speculative letter and networking, you can explore other industries too.

SMEs offer great rewards. Gain comprehensive business exposure, learn rapidly, and climb the ladder faster than in larger organisations.

Things to consider when working for an SME

Working for an SME is an opportunity for skill development. In smaller organisations, your ideas are valued, and you'll gain hands-on experience. Your contributions directly impact the business's performance and operations. 

Here's why an SME is worth considering: 

• Embrace variety: Individual departments for every function are less common. You'll tackle a range of tasks, providing you with a holistic understanding of the business.
• Break hierarchy: They are often less hierarchical, granting you more access to senior members. This connection can support your career growth.
• Take initiative: Take on responsibility and showcase your initiative. Prove yourself, and you'll unlock opportunities for advancement in expanding companies.
• Fast-track rewards: Salaries may not be great initially, but they can rise rapidly compared to companies with rigid promotion policies.
• Build connections: With fewer employees, you're likely to know everyone in the organisation, including staff and clients. This fosters valuable connections and expands your professional network.
• Graduate potential: Some SMEs may hold misconceptions about graduates, perceiving them as inexperienced. However, you can also be recognised for your intelligence and adaptability as a quick learner. 

What skills are sought by SMEs

To impress potential employers, it's crucial to understand their desired skills. Show how you can contribute to their business. You cannot assume they're familiar with higher education. You must explain your academic studies and highlight the advantages of hiring a graduate. 

SMEs prioritise the same skills as larger companies, but hold more importance in smaller settings where you'll use them consistently. Provide evidence for each of these skills in your CV or application: 

• Self-motivation/proactivity
• Willingness to learn
• Problem-solving ability
• Flexibility
• Initiative
• Strong communication skills
• Teamwork
• Organisation (self, work, and time) 

By demonstrating these skills, you'll stand out and increase your chances of landing a position with an SME. 

How to approach an SME

Larger organisations rely on reputation and graduate recruitment fairs. SMEs take a different approach to advertising their vacancies. They typically use: 

• Local press
• University job portals and local graduate listings
• Job centres
• Word of mouth 

Timing is key for speculative applications, where you submit a CV and cover letter even when no position is advertised. Such applications can often fill a significant number of vacancies.

However, a speculative CV and cover letter alone might not suffice. Follow up with a meeting request or make a telephone call. If possible, leverage your network to secure an introduction. 

Recruitment in SMEs can be unconventional. If they meet you and like you, they may want to offer you a position.