This week I had a thoughtful conversation with a colleague preparing to start a master’s in international development.
I made my first career steps in 2005, as one of the oldest millennials around. Now I’m talking with a Gen-Z’er about her career plans. Dare I say… it was an inter-generational conversation. Not feeling old, at all.
For a personal perspective on returning to study and reshaping a career, see Two secret reasons I went back to school.
Our chat turned into a broader reflection on where people early in their careers — or at a crossroads — can make the most impact. We talked about the tension between large institutions and small, fast-moving organisations. Structure versus freedom.
If these questions and tensions have ever been in your mind, here is my cheat-sheet approaching the decision from an impact perspective. I hope it will help you think through where you might thrive. (It has got me thinking, too…)
To create the conditions for better decisions in any setting, 5 common facilitation mistakes — and how to avoid them with confidence offers practical pointers.
If you’re motivated by structure, legacy, and public service…
Try: Government, multilateral organisations like the UN, EU or African Union, or diplomacy
These are systems with scale. You learn how decisions get made, and how policies shape lives. Progress can be slow, but it is powerful. These are great places to build knowledge and networks.
If you’re driven by creativity, experimentation, and quick feedback…
Try: Startups (including new NGOs / social enterprises)
These environments reward initiative. You have to be comfortable with ambiguity in fast-changing work environments. You can stretch your skills and wear many hats. Ideal if you want to test new approaches and see results in real time, and often have a lot of agency and control over how you work.
If you enjoy variety and working across sectors…
Try: Consulting, advocacy, or hybrid models
You might work with multiple organisations, helping them tackle strategy, storytelling, or systems. These areas can be a good fit for people who enjoy context-switching, relationship-building, and supporting others to grow. Hybrid models could include a small consultancy working with large institutions, organisations that might receive donor funding but operate with startup agility, and teams that both execute campaigns and advise on big-picture planning.
For example, AMS is a hybrid model: we are not an NGO, nor a purely commercial agency. We consult for nonprofits, deliver services, and build capacity, combining some of the systems thinking from big institutions and some of the responsiveness from smaller startups.
If you’re curious about the future of remote work, Are we doing enough to support global digital freelancers? might offer some food for thought.
If you’re drawn to influencing change from the outside…
Try: Advocacy or campaigning organisations
These groups often aim to shift public opinion, pressure decision-makers, or amplify underrepresented voices. You’ll likely be working in coalitions, managing messaging, and navigating political contexts.
If you want to focus deeply on one problem…
Try: Starting something of your own, or academia
Founding a project or organisation gives you ownership and the freedom to build something aligned with your values. It’s intense and uncertain — but for some, that’s where the most meaningful work happens. On the other hand, academia or research institutions allow you to go deep — to explore complex issues, gather data, and generate insights that can shape policy or practice. You may teach, publish, or collaborate with field organisations – a good fit for thinkers and curious minds.
But here’s what really matters:
- No path is perfect. Every role comes with trade-offs — in autonomy, influence, pace, or sustainability.
- You don’t have to choose forever. Many people move between these spaces over time. E.g., me. I think I’ve tried them all!
- Start with your values and energy. Where do you feel most useful? What energises you instead of draining you?
These aren’t definitive answers, just starting points. The point is to get curious about the kind of environment that fits your way of working — and where you can make a difference without burning out.
AMS supports purpose-driven organisations with communications, strategy, and leadership coaching. If you’re exploring your next step in the impact world, we’re always up for a conversation. You can apply to our Freelance Consultant Roster via our careers page, contact us, or follow us @ams_consultancy
