Episode description

Join host Nikhyl Singhal in this fascinating episode of ‘The Skip’ Podcast, as he explores the unique characteristics and opportunities of big tech companies in the current economic climate. Nikhyl discusses the challenges and advantages of working in big tech, defined by companies like Microsoft, Apple, Google, Meta, and Amazon. Learn about the changing landscape of the industry and how professionals can make the most of their big tech experience, such as leveraging transferable skills, networking opportunities, and the chance to work on diverse projects. Additionally, Nikhyl shares insights into the increased number of individual contributor (IC) roles in the industry and why delaying managing teams can be highly career additive.

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Full Show-notes:

• 00:00 - Nikhyl explains why growth companies aren't as attractive and how big tech is different.
• 02:07 - Defining big tech and examples of companies that fit this category.
• 04:09 - The culture and hiring practices in big tech companies before 2022.
• 10:30 - Challenges big tech companies face in creating new innovations… and their track record.
• 11:27 - The changing environment and opportunities for working in big tech pre- and post-2022.
• 13:03 - Transferable skills gained from working in big tech make employees attractive in the job market.
• 15:46 - Networking opportunities available at big tech companies due to their large employee base.
• 20:12 - The ease of distribution in big tech and the challenge of creating connected products.
• 22:20 - Larger organizations require employees to stay longer to make a significant impact.
• 23:50 - Challenges of building things in big tech companies, such as finding the right role.
• 24:41 - Big tech companies are hiring fewer managers and pushing them closer to individual contributors (ICs).
• 28:37 - Industry push for management roles led to weaker managers and less depth of craft.
• 30:53 - Importance of building a strong skill set before becoming a manager.
• 31:48 - Four major types of ambiguities in careers: growth, crafting and market, organizational complexities, and domain expertise.