IT Graduate problem

Rudimental

I have a problem that some people would kill for and without sounding ungrateful, it has been a complete pain to deal with. I have the choice of two very well regarded companies for my first graduate position.

Company 1 is one that I worked for previously as an intern in a team that were really supportive to me and that I got along with very well. The role is a 2nd level support role for a well known software brand.

Company 2 are offering a position on a structured graduate programme that is tuned for leadership and management within their IT department. The programme would ramp me up to be a Business Analyst or Project Manager within a short number of years.

Financially, they are both of similar amounts and that is not the key driver for my decision. I feel like company 2 may allow me to build up transferable skills that will work in my favour in the next 5 to 10 years however I have a very good relationship with company 1 and if I can hit the ground running and commit to them, I have seen people rise up through their ranks and move to exciting technology areas within the company.

In the time it has taken me to write this message (15 minutes), I have flip-flopped on the offer to go with. I am caught between a rock and a hard place as I have had a really great experience in Company 1 but feel that Company 2 may allow me to develop into the position I want to be in in the next 5-10 years along with the ultimate financial gain that would come with that (although I know that money isn't everything, I would like to be financially comfortable).

So, boards, what do you think? I would welcome feedback from anyone at all but especially those with an IT background. Thank you.

bellylint

howdy,
Have a degree in IT, a grad dip in health informatics and am currently studying for an MBA. I have worked for 4 companies on a professional level, and a number of contracted items over that term.
For me personnel relationships with companies are extremely important (and more so people, am very people focused) and I focus on improving them whenever I can. Each company that I have worked for and they would take me back very quickly.
Saying all that, in my view you should take the second option unless you reckon its gonna be a ****e place to work. Your should really invest in your skillset in my view.
Keep in mind companies want you because you can make them more money than they will pay you. Comraderie is brilliant and its the reason I dont feel work is work, but there is nothing to say the next company wont be the most amazing place to work and where you get lifelong friends.

hope that is of some help.

Mr. Loverman

Maintain your good relationship with company 1... take the job in company 2.

As you say: company 2 is offering you the career you want. They are currently an unknown... but it's possible you will also have a great experience there too.

Rudimental

Thanks both of you for your advice!