The author's point isn't that big companies are better, just that it's a good experience to have. I worked for a public company post acquisition and it was a gr

The author's point isn't that big companies are better, just that it's a good experience to have. I worked for a public company post acquisition and it was a great learning experience (some good lessons, some "don't do it this way" lessons, but overall good). I wouldn't want to make a career working for big companies, but I think you're better off as a business person if you end up in one from time to time. Now if you want some definitive advice on where not to work. Don't work for a husband and wife operated company, ever. There you will encounter the worst aspects of a lifestyle business combined with nepotism (especially the unfireable but totally incompetent spouse). Otherwise spend some time in a combination of startups and big companies. Both have their strong points, and remember 90% of startups fail, so its not as if startupland is nirvana.