What a Software Engineer at Big Tech Company Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Tech Industry
Matthew wishes someone had told him that being a Software Engineer is also about being a "business person" and delivering impactful products, not just writing perfect code; while his philosophical nature leans toward careful planning, the industry often values a "move fast and break things" mentality for those focused on product delivery. He notes that while a more research-oriented role may be a better long-term fit for his introspective approach, thriving as a Software Engineer requires embracing the fast-paced, impact-driven mindset.
Industry Realities, Career Development, Project Management, Problem-Solving, Workplace Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Matthew Gagliardi
Software Engineer III
Big Tech Company
University of San Diego
U.C. Berekely . M.A. mathematics
Mathematics, Data Science, Statistics, Philosophy
Arts, Entertainment & Media, Technology
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. Impact over perfection: Delivering products and having a tangible impact are more valued than writing perfect code or being the smartest person on the team.
2. Embrace the "move fast and break things" mentality: While a philosophical and introspective approach has its place, software engineers need to be willing to move quickly and iterate.
3. Engineers are business people: Even without direct business responsibilities, engineers are assessed on their ability to contribute to the company's goals and product delivery.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before you entered the industry?
That's a great question. I think the thing I wish someone had told me is that, as an engineer, even if you're not directly involved in the business aspects of the product or company you're working on, you are still a businessman or business person.
This means you won't necessarily get recognized for being the smartest person on your team or for writing the most elegant code. You will be recognized for delivering products and having an impact. That's how you're assessed.
There's a common mantra now: "Move fast and break things." This sentiment is articulated across companies of all sizes. I've always been skeptical of this, though. By nature, I'm a philosopher who is introspective.
I like to think things through and anticipate every possible edge case before errors occur. There's definitely a place for that in tech, particularly in research and development roles. Ultimately, that's the kind of role I'd love to be in.
However, as a software engineer delivering products for people to use, you have to embrace that mindset. I wish someone had told me this sooner. You can't just be the philosopher in the corner and expect to thrive as a software engineer.