Ask Fred > Career/Work > Public v. Private Sector employment
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Dear Fred
What do you feel are the pros and cons to working for the private sector vs. the public sector?
Fred's Response
Both public and private cover a wide range of management styles. Some individuals like the security and opportunities in the public sector, particularly those who go in a large organization where their personality and political skills help them advance. Specifically, I have advised young people in college who are going into business that I would prefer to work for a well organized public corporation until I learned the best systems for doing things. And then go to a privately owned company where I could acquire equity and leadership. One of the things that you have to watch in privately owned companies is the effect of the family on the business. Are there going to be relatives who are given the best jobs stopping outsiders no matter how capable? Specialists have a greater usefulness in public corporation. In private businesses you have to learn to wear a number of hats.
