Why Do People Choose Corporate Careers? A Journey from small business to Fortune 500

Entering the corporate world can often feel like stepping into a foreign land, especially for those transitioning from smaller organizations. After spending eight years at a close-knit company with around 200 employees, I recently made the leap to a Fortune 500 firm—a move that, to my surprise, turned out to be one of the most disappointing experiences of my professional life.

In my previous role, the hierarchy was straightforward: CEO, manager, and junior staff. This flat structure fostered clarity, collaboration, and a sense of camaraderie. Everyone was pulling in the same direction—aiming to support the team and drive the company forward. However, upon joining the corporate juggernaut, I was met with a starkly different reality that seemed to contradict everything I believed in.

The corporate environment was rife with disillusionment. I encountered an unsettling culture characterized by managers playing a game of telephone, where communication broke down and messages became distorted. Additionally, I witnessed individuals undermining each other’s efforts to advance their own agendas—a toxic atmosphere that I found both bewildering and disheartening. Rather than striving to create value, it felt like I was part of a survival-of-the-fittest narrative.

After nearly a decade of dedication to performance and teamwork, it became clear that my values were not aligned with the fabric of this corporate culture. I ultimately made the tough decision to leave and pursue my own business venture—an avenue where I could foster the same positive environment that I cherished in my earlier career.

This experience has left me questioning why so many individuals choose to immerse themselves in such a corporate landscape. Is it merely a matter of comfort or familiarity? Are they truly content with a workplace culture marked by scheming, gossip, and negativity? As I browsed Reddit, I discovered that my feelings were echoed by many others who shared similar sentiments, which led me to ponder: What draws people to corporate roles despite the prevailing toxicity?

Such an environment does not seem sustainable, and I can’t help but wonder what justifies the prevalence of these practices within large organizations. Is there an underlying rationale that dictates that this approach is the preferred method of operation?

As I reflect on my own experience, I realize I am seeking a form of closure. I consistently felt out of place, questioning the norms that my peers seemed to accept without hesitation. Is there something deeper at play that incentivizes this type of behavior?