Name: High Expectations
Uploaded: 2025-11-21T20:36:22+00:00
Duration: 4 min 14 s
Description: Working at a Big Tech company not only offers high compensation but also provides a deeply structured environment where

High Expectations

Working at a Big Tech company not only offers high compensation but also provides a deeply structured environment where engineers can build strong foundational and well-rounded skills that serve them throughout their careers.

- **Development of Proper Engineering Practices**:\
  Big Tech companies offer exposure to sophisticated engineering systems—like robust release processes, analytics, alerting systems, and internal tools—that are often absent in smaller or less mature companies. Code reviews at these companies are rigorous and serve as a powerful feedback loop for improvement.

- **Code Review as a Learning Vehicle**:\
  Engineers frequently receive detailed, high-quality feedback from experienced colleagues. This feedback can be humbling but accelerates learning rapidly. Many engineers report that their first few code reviews at companies like Meta were transformative for their understanding of clean and scalable code.

- **Long-Term Adaptability and Engineering Excellence**:\
  Companies like Meta, Google, and Facebook have survived and thrived through multiple technological waves, requiring continual upgrades to their tech stack. This longevity forces an engineering culture of adaptability and technical evolution, offering a rich environment to build durable skills.

- **Skill Building Beyond Coding**:\
  Engineers develop communication, project management, and stakeholder alignment skills due to the complex decision-making and collaborative processes required in large organizations. These are critical for navigating large orgs where gaining alignment often requires multiple approvals and relationship-building.

- **Career Resilience Through Transferable Skills**:\
  The non-technical skills gained—like system design, communication, and influence—are valued across all industries and reduce career risk. They are particularly important in a world where AI may automate some coding tasks. These capabilities enable long-term career success beyond technical fluency.

Working at a Big Tech company not only offers high compensation but also provides a deeply structured environment where 