In a recent LinkedIn post, Callum Laing delves into the perennial dynamic of companies envying each other’s perceived advantages based on size. Laing, a seasoned business commentator, highlights the common misconception that either being a large, established entity or a nimble, small startup inherently possesses an easier path to success. He emphasizes that each stage of a company’s growth presents unique challenges and benefits, and the critical factor for success lies in adopting strategies appropriate for one’s current size.
Laing opens by painting a relatable picture of this corporate envy:
Small companies envy big ones. Big companies envy small ones.
He elaborates on this sentiment, noting how smaller firms often look at larger corporations and their resources with a sense of longing, while larger businesses might admire the agility and lower overheads of their smaller counterparts. However, Laing cautions against this one-dimensional view, asserting that the reality is far more nuanced.
The Danger of Playing the Wrong Game
A core argument presented by Laing is the significant risk associated with attempting to implement strategies that are misaligned with a company’s current scale. He warns that small companies attempting to mimic the complex, resource-intensive strategies of big corporations are likely to face swift failure.
If you’re small and try to apply big-company strategies, you will quickly go bust.
Conversely, Laing points out that large organizations that adopt the tactics of smaller, more agile businesses can also falter. Such an approach, he argues, can lead to internal confusion and operational stagnation.
If you’re big and apply small-company strategies, you will confuse your team and grind to a halt.
This highlights Laing’s central thesis: strategic alignment with company size is paramount.
The Importance of Stage-Appropriate Advice
Building on the idea of strategic alignment, Laing underscores the critical need for tailored advice. He suggests that the most valuable guidance comes from individuals or entities who are just one step ahead in their business journey, rather than those who are significantly further along.
Seeking Mentorship from the Next Level
According to Callum Laing, the key to effective strategic planning involves choosing tactics that fit the company’s current stage of development. This principle extends to leadership and governance, particularly when selecting board members.
The key is to choose the strategy that fits your stage, and to take advice from people who are one step ahead of you, not ten.
Laing posits that seeking advice from those who have recently navigated the challenges a company is currently facing can provide more relevant and actionable insights than advice from leaders operating at a much more advanced stage. This perspective suggests a focus on practical, relatable growth strategies rather than aspirational, potentially unattainable ones.
In conclusion, Callum Laing’s LinkedIn post serves as a timely reminder for businesses of all sizes to remain grounded in their strategic approach. By recognizing the unique pros and cons of their current stage and seeking advice from those who have recently traversed similar paths, companies can better navigate the complexities of growth and avoid the pitfalls of misaligned strategies.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Callum Laing on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on March 21, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →