Gen Z employees have won their dream job as a full-time software engineer at seven epic companies. They love their work, but the fast-paced, high-pressure environments of major technology are not for everyone. Profit should not overshadow your passion for coding and innovation.
This essay is based on conversations with seven grand Gen Z employees. The source’s name and full employment history are known to Business Insiders, but are not named to protect your privacy. Edited for length and clarity.
I’ve always dreamed of working in Silicon Valley for a large tech company, but now I’ve worked for one of the epic 7s, so I don’t think it’s the best career path for anyone.
I advise those considering infiltrating big techniques for self-reflection before deciding whether this path is right for them.
I moved to the US with the vision of landing work on the tech giant.
I wanted to influence millions through the line of code, so from day one I’ve been working on joining a major tech company.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science in the United States and became a full-time software engineer when he joined a major high-tech company shortly after graduating.
My first breakthrough came in the summer after my freshman year
I had the opportunity to intern as a software developer.
The mass application to large tech internships, freelance for building a LinkedIn networking, research and freelance portfolio put me at the door. He also participated in meetings such as Treehacks, La Hacks, and Technica, as well as The Grace Hopper Conference and Afrotech.
I started these efforts while still a student, worked as a supporter, did some odd jobs, including working as a startup, teaching assistants to six core computer science courses at the university. I did.
I also started writing high-tech blogs consistently on LinkedIn.
My second big tech breakthrough came when I got the opportunity to interne at a major tech company in Silicon Valley.
This helped me get a full-time, big tech job in a year.
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My dreams aren’t disappointing me – I love working for Big Technology. The perks are endless: gorgeous office, free or subsidized food and drinks, shocking jobs, excellent retirement and health insurance benefits, fitness rebates, intelligent colleagues, high pay, and more.
That doesn’t mean that big technology is right for everyone. If you fall into any of these five categories, you may not be suitable for a big tech carrier.
1. You don’t like to put pressure on working at a fast pace
If you’re uncomfortable in a high-pressure environment where working at a fierce speed is essential, then a big technology may not be for you.
Large tech companies hire people who are not only extremely capable, but are also extremely motivated and often pay the best salaries of the market to attract the best talent. These companies usually need to move fast as they focus on speed and constant innovation to stay ahead of the competition.
We recommend interacting with other parts of your business. This encourages faster decision-making and reduces communication barriers. They also expect high quality work quickly, even from interns.
It’s okay to work right away. I quickly learned that it would be helpful to have a concrete plan of action, set up sub-goals to get back on track, and jump straight into the task rather than procrastination.
2. You are not obsessed with constant learning and skill updates
The technology industry is fast-paced and amplified even more when working for a large, highly innovative company. Candidates in this field need to quickly adapt to new tools, frameworks and APIs.
Once AI tools are first introduced, many large tech companies will quickly encourage employees to use their employees to work more efficiently. Since its launch in 2024, my work has seen a surge in the use of AI tools.
3. Not prepared for stressful environments
Fast innovation and results are part of the technology industry and parcels. These requests can cause employees to experience severe pressure. Especially those who have no real passion for their work.
You need to choose the right team and enjoy your work. Otherwise it will be stressful. I handle the stress by taking a break from travel and wellness days.
4. Rather than making a difference, you’re fascinated by the big tech perks
With the best-in-class benefits that most people can dream of, it makes sense that some people are drawn to great tech because of free food and health and fitness benefits. This is a mistake.
Perks can help you perform best in the workplace. If you participate just for them, they can be distracted from the actual purpose and influence of your work. They can also reduce their motivation to improve and adapt, as they may hamper long-term career growth.
Initially, I went through a period of distraction from the perks. It was easy to keep socializing when eating free food in the office. I learned to stay focused.
5. You’re just there to make money right away – not because you like coding and technology
Engaging in a job that you don’t think makes sense just for money and profit can quickly lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and amputation.
If your main motivation is economic, you may miss the joy of solving problems or creating innovative solutions. My main motivation is that my code is used and I enjoy coding and love that helps billions of people.
I see myself working in big technology for a long time. I love the impact that it has in this industry, enjoying profits and pay and can imagine long-term growth.