Well Roundedness

Working in Big Tech expands far beyond engineering; it shapes individuals into well-rounded professionals by pushing them to develop skills in communication, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Development of cross-functional skills: Navigating product launches or technical changes in a large organization requires coordination across many stakeholders, honing project management, communication, relationship-building, and system design abilities.
• Environment fosters personal growth: Operating within a large, complex structure forces individuals to adapt, influence, and lead through collaboration—skills less emphasized in smaller, more agile companies.
• Preparation for an AI-driven future: As coding becomes more automated, the remaining 80% of a top engineer’s job like communication, strategy, and leadership becomes even more valuable. This environment equips engineers for longevity in their careers.
• Transferable experience for career switchers: Even those new to tech can succeed by leveraging skills from prior careers (e.g., hospitality, education, operations). Communication and stakeholder management experience, in particular, translate well.
• Resilience through versatility: Focusing on foundational skills that transcend tech stacks or tools creates career durability, avoiding dependency on niche or outdated technologies.