THE CARETAKER

My camera can never resist the “Parked Art” of aging truck fleets and equipment. The patina of their color and classic lines always draw me. I met Tom Moore while photographing an old truck company lot. The firm was closed, but Tom had stayed on to keep the equipment in order and caretake the yard. Tom is a strong man. Someone who carried a lot of work responsibility on his shoulders.  Work that left him with a legacy formed in working for a small company. This was his church and he had his own relics.

As he explained it, the owners loved the business and poured all their life into it. Even though business had ended, they liked to have the old iron around to remember the best of days and the work they did. For Tom, their long time employee, the legacy fell on him to preserve those memories. 

Beyond the sheer art of the place, meeting Tom reminded me of opportunities that still remain working for some small companies. They are often overlooked in the gig economy. The right ones can often provide rich career experiences. These companies still thrive in the “local economy.” They are much needed. Working for a small company, you can wear many hats. In Tom’s case, driver, mechanic, salesman and crew manager. 

You only have one boss to answer to and they give you lots of freedom in doing your job, only expecting results in return. Many times this close relationship forges bonds. Some even leading to special relationships and opportunities to buy into the firm, as owners retire. How often is that offered in the corporate work world? 

An excellent article on the advantages of working for small companies is “17 Reasons you might want to work for a small business” by Mary Ellen Slayter. 

Working for a small company is not for everyone. Corporations offer their own rewards and finding viable small companies is harder than ever. Still, I agree with Mary Ellen, small companies are too often overlooked as career choices.