It's hard to believe that it's already been four months since I joined the TrendyMinds team.  It seems like it was only a few weeks ago that I made the move from my job with a large advertising agency in Louisville to our full service, boutique office in Indianapolis.  

From the moment I walked through the front door, I have been able to participate and contribute my skills and knowledge on a variety of public relations and interactive projects.  I can say, without a doubt, that TrendyMinds has offered more opportunities for participating on client projects and increasing my familiarity with each of our five services- advertising, branding, public relations, interactive services and promotions.   Because TrendyMinds is comprised of a smaller group of talented and tech-savvy individuals, I've been given more opportunities for learning and growth than I would find if I were at a large New York, Chicago or Los Angeles office.

This is something I caution recent college graduates and young professionals about when I hear them talking about their hopes and aspirations to work for larger agencies.  I know because I had the same aspirations when I was their age - dreaming of an account executive position at a large PR office in Los Angeles. 

During my time in LA, I worked for a boutique agency, similar in size to the TrendyMinds office.  I worked closely with my mentors - they allowed me to collaborate with them on client projects, voice my ideas and opinions and attend various meetings with clients.  I firmly believe working for smaller offices allows young professionals to learn more about the ins and outs of the industry, provided it's under the tutelage of knowledgeable supervisors and mentors.

I feel when it comes to gaining "real world" working experience, bigger is not better. While larger agencies have mentoring programs for new-hires, my personal experience working for a large advertising agency didn't provide as many opportunities to be "hands-on," as I had hoped.  This was solidified over time as I observed the bureaucratic process and office politics that often come into play in larger offices.

I realize that no one can afford to be picky in today's job market.  I'm certainly not saying to avoid applying or accepting a job because it's with a larger office.  That being said, I feel college students and recent graduates should be actively searching for opportunities that provide the most room for growth and that, in my opinion, is found in smaller, boutique agencies.