Working for a Mom and Pop Company

[QUOTE="semi" retired;4523138]Hi Blacktop, I've worked for both and each has it's +'s and -'s. In a small operation, you feel like much more of the "team", where the boss of a big place, just can't be buddies with 500 drivers. While getting someone to listen to you in a small co. is better, actually getting something done could be another story.( truck repairs, day off, etc)Personally, I'd rather work for a small outfit, where my extra help wouldn't go unnoticed. Unless they have some regular freight, you may end up sitting more with a small outfit, they may or may not have the resources to keep you moving. Be careful with small outfit's, however, you may become "part of the family", and may be asked to do things that you may not get paid for, and that's where the ugliness comes in.[/QUOTE]

The same principles also apply in retailing.
When you work for a major retail chain, you are more often a number than a person. When you work for a sole proprietor, You are definitely noticed more. However, it is also true that family "ugliness" can also set in. I have been on both sides of the "fence", as a retail clerk back then and today.

Either way, keep as much personal information to yourself and do your best while on the job.

Whatever decision you make, good luck to you.

 

Having gone from mega to small company, I'm gonna stop short of saying ..never.. but I highly doubt I'll ..ever .. work for a mega again. 4 trucks/drivers at the company I'm working for.

IMO, the biggest problem with a small company is word of mouth (or lack thereof). When trying to make a decision to work for a small company, pretty much all you have to go by is gut feeling. Talk to them, try to read them as much as you can. Maybe you can track down one of their drivers and talk to them.

But yeah, after being at a mega, it's quite a culture shock when you call the company and no matter who answers, you know them and they know you. Or driver paperwork is in bins labeled with the drivers first names only.

 

I have always drove for small fleet owners and OO's. I suggest you check your new employer out here > http://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CompanySnapshot.aspx , and make sure you won't have a target on your back!
Go take a look at the equipment, If you see marginal tires, leaking hubs, oil covered engine, or other signs of poor maintenance then get out of there. With most small oufits there is only one person making the decisions, and if that person is making bad decisions, you will never change anything, and will just end up wasting a few months of your life!
If you find a good one, you will learn a lot more about the transportation industry, and be able to take some pride in being a little more involved in the outcome than the average company driver. Best to yah...X