In just a few short days I'll be writing the end of one chapter of my career and starting a new one. I've been looking forward to the next chapter for some time now. Over the past year or more while contemplating the next step in my career, I made a mental list of characteristics that might comprise the "ideal" place to work for me. I've never written those things down until now. In addition to some basics that go without saying — good pay, location, nice people to work with, etc. — there were some more specific and harder to find aspects that I desired.
1. Smaller is Better
For most of my career, I've worked for large corporations. Despite the advantages (or perceived advantages) of working for a big company, I think my personality, perspectives and long-term goals are better suited to a small team.
2. Hats
I think most people like to have some variety in their day-to-day work routines. I'd like to think that I can contribute to the success of a team in more ways that one. Not only do I enjoy designing what a website looks like, I also like to be involved in (and have definite opinions on) how a site is built and how a user should interact with it and even contribute to the goals and strategy of a site. So, wearing multiple hats besides just the design hat really appeals to me.
3. Ownership & Impact
I've always thought it would be fun and rewarding to have my own company. However, for numerous reasons, I don't think I'm cut out for the reality of it. So in lieu of being a CEO, it would be great to work at a place (a small company lends itself better to this) where I can still have a direct impact on the goals, strategy and direction of the company and be responsible for a major portion of the business.
I am thankful that I have found a place that satisfies most, if not all, of the characteristics on my list and more. I'm excited to announce that on May 24th I'll be joining the super talented team of designers and developers at Ascendio in Irving, Texas. Not familiar with Ascendio? Here's a bit about them from the website:
Ascendio is an idea development studio. We are an energetic, friendly group with a knack for building long-term relationships with our clients. Our skills are in savvy design, tip-top programming, productive thinking and honest conversations. We believe in careful attention to detail, telling the truth and making the most of life.
This is a small group of smart people doing inspiring work for some really cool clients. I am humbled to be counted as one of them and I'm eager to wear all those different hats. I look forward to working with them, learning new things from them and hopefully sharing what I know to make the company even better.