Why SMEs Have the Edge in Attracting Top Talent
One of the most common things I hear from SME leaders when we talk about recruitment is: “How can we compete with the big players?” And honestly, I get it. Global corporations often have more money to throw around, a shinier employer brand, and a reputation that precedes them. But here’s the thing: SMEs offer something different—and in many ways, better.
At Collingwood Executive Search, we’ve seen time and again that the unique strengths of SMEs can actually be more attractive to top talent than the perks and prestige of a big-name corporation. That’s why we recently ran a LinkedIn Poll to dig into this idea and find out:
What’s the strongest attraction to join an SME business over a global corporation?
Here’s what people told us:
- 71%: Direct impact and visibility
- 14%: More agile
- 10%: Cared for, not just a number
- 5%: Closer access to leadership
It’s fascinating, isn’t it? These results really speak to the unique magic that SMEs bring to the table. Let’s break them down and talk about what they mean for you as an SME leader.
- Direct Impact and Visibility (71%)
The overwhelming winner here was direct impact and visibility. People want to know their work matters—that it’s seen and appreciated. In an SME, that’s almost a given.
Think about it: in a small or medium-sized business, every single person contributes to the bigger picture. You can actually see the results of your work, whether it’s a successful project, a big win for the company, or simply knowing that your ideas were taken seriously and acted on.
That’s a far cry from the experience many employees have in global corporations, where it’s easy to feel like just another cog in a massive machine.
So, here’s the takeaway: if you’re recruiting, shout about this! Show candidates how their work will make a tangible difference in your business. Whether it’s through job descriptions, interviews, or onboarding, paint a picture of the impact they’ll have.
- More Agile (14%)
Coming in second, 14% of people said agility is a big draw for SMEs—and this is such an underrated strength.
Let’s be real: big corporations can’t pivot quickly. Decisions get stuck in layers of bureaucracy, and by the time anything happens, the world has moved on. SMEs, on the other hand, can be nimble and responsive. That’s incredibly appealing to people who thrive on innovation and creativity.
If this is something your business does well, don’t keep it a secret. Talk about how you embrace change, encourage new ideas, and give your team the freedom to try things out without waiting for approval from a dozen different people.
- Cared For, Not Just a Number (10%)
Only 10% chose this as the top benefit, but let’s not underestimate it—because feeling valued is huge.
In an SME, it’s easier to build meaningful relationships. You get to know your team personally, not just professionally, and that sense of care and connection goes a long way. Compare that to some large organisations where people can feel invisible or like just another name on a payroll.
If you’re the kind of leader who takes time to ask how people are really doing—or you make it a point to celebrate individual contributions—shout about it! That personal touch is something not every company can offer.
- Closer Access to Leadership (5%)
This one got the smallest percentage, but it’s still a major advantage for SMEs.
In a smaller business, people get face time with leaders, which can be incredibly valuable for their development. It’s not just about learning from you—it’s about being part of the conversation and feeling like their voice matters.
If you’re the kind of leader who has an open-door policy, listens, and genuinely connects with your team, that’s a big selling point. Let people know they’ll be part of a culture where leadership is approachable and decisions don’t happen in an ivory tower.
Why This Matters for SMEs
These poll results are such a great reminder that SMEs don’t need to compete with global corporations on their terms. You have something different to offer—and that difference can be exactly what top talent is looking for.
Here’s the key: lean into what makes your business special. Show candidates how they’ll have a direct impact, how they’ll work in an agile and supportive environment, and how they’ll be more than just another number.
And if you’re still feeling unsure, just remember: we’ve helped countless SMEs attract incredible people who thrive in these kinds of settings. It’s not about having the biggest budget or the flashiest perks—it’s about creating a workplace where people can see themselves growing, contributing, and making a difference.
If you’d like to chat more about how to position your SME as a top employer, I’d love to help. Just reach out, and let’s start a conversation.
About the author
Having started his career in Executive Search in 1998, Doug set up Collingwood in 2005 alongside his wife, Claire Mackay.
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