CHOOSE YOUR COMPANY WITH CARE Small is beautiful. That, at least, is the conclusion of new research examining how satisfied secretaries are in different sized firms. "We have found that people who work for small or medium-sized companies work harder and are more committed," says Catrin Morgan, author of one of the latest studies in this field. "The smaller the environment, the bigger the part you play as an individual, and the more people notice your absence." This will come as a surprise to many secretaries. Some recruitment agencies said that secretaries are keen to get positions in the bigger companies. However, smaller companies can be more flexible when it comes to working hours, and have better working conditions, but working for smaller firms is not without its disadvantages. Career development in the form of courses can be limited, but, on the other hand, employees often feel that they can learn more on the job. In fact, opportunities for promotion are the same whatever the size of the company. Morgan also says, "Our research shows that in a company of fewer than 50 people, employers can actually see what their employees are producing and then give them bonuses as appropriate.\ Bosses in small companies reward secretaries financially if they are pleased with their work.