What is Big Tech? Everything You Need to Know About it (2024)

In 2022, Apple became the first company to reach a market cap of $3 trillion, giving it the top spot among the big tech companies of Silicon Valley. The term ‘big tech’ refers to the five technology giants—Apple, Alphabet (Google), Amazon, Facebook (Meta), and Microsoft—that are among the most coveted companies to work for. Hence, we are listing the necessary steps and skills to get employed by a big tech company and build your career in these organizations.

The term ‘Big Tech’ refers to a group of technology companies that have dominated the industry for years due to their size, influence, and financial success. These firms are distinguished by their ability to collect, process, and monetize massive amounts of data and their global reach and impact on the economy and society.

The term typically refers to the world’s five largest technology companies—Amazon, Apple, Facebook (Meta), Google (Alphabet), and Microsoft, but it can also imply other large technology firms such as Alibaba, Tencent, and Tesla. These corporations are frequently described as having a disproportionate impact on the technology sector and the world. They are the subject of increased regulatory scrutiny due to concerns about their power and influence.

Why are the Big Five Considered to be Big Tech?

The ‘Big Five’ technology companies have a massive global footprint, with billions of users and customers worldwide. Moreover, they are also innovators in cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence(AI), cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), giving them a competitive advantage in their respective industries.

In addition, these companies are known for amassing and processing massive amounts of personal and business data. Also, big tech companies use to personalize their products and services and generate revenue through targeted advertising and other monetization strategies.

Big tech companies are extremely profitable, generating billions of dollars in annual revenue and significantly contributing to the global economy. Due to all these factors, the ‘Big Five’ are considered the world’s most dominant and influential technology companies.

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The ‘Big Five’ technology companies, also known as ‘Big Tech,’ operate in a variety of businesses. Here’s a quick rundown of what each of them does:

Amazon

Amazon specializes in e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. Its main product is the Amazon.com website, one of the world’s largest online retailers.

Apple

Apple manufactures, sells, and develops consumer electronics, computer software, and online services. The iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple Music are among its most well-known products.

Facebook (Meta)

Facebook (Meta) is a social networking site that allows users to connect with friends and family, share content, and participate in online communities. It also owns Instagram and WhatsApp, among other popular platforms.

Google (Alphabet)

Alphabet Inc., a multinational conglomerate specializing in internet-related services and products, owns Google. Its main product is the Google search engine, but it also provides other services such as Google Maps and Google Drive.

Microsoft

Microsoft creates, licenses, and sells computer software, consumer electronics, and personal computers. Moreover, the Windows operating system, the Microsoft Office suite of productivity software and the Xbox video game console are among its most well-known products.

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• Strong technical knowledge: Knowledge of programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering principles
• Problem-solving abilities: The ability to think creatively and solve difficult problems
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills are required
• Initiative and leadership: Taking initiative and leading projects
• Adaptability: Learning new technologies and working effectively in a rapidly changing environment
• Passion for Technology: A strong desire to keep up with the latest technological trends and developments

How Much Do Big Tech Companies Pay

To attract top talent, big tech companies are known to offer competitive salaries and benefits. However, the exact amount paid by a large tech company can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors such as position, location, company size and profitability, experience, and skill level. Some of the average salaries for various roles at major tech companies are as follows:

• Software Engineer: $132,000 – $200,000 (Google, Amazon, Facebook, etc.)
• Product Manager Salary: $130,000 – $197,000 (Google, Amazon, Facebook, etc.)
• Data Scientist: $154,000 – $212,000 (Google, Amazon, Facebook, etc.)

Here is a short list of things you can do to improve your chances of working for a big tech company:

• Improve your technical skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends
• Create an effective online presence, network, and attend industry events
• Apply for relevant job openings with a customized resume and cover letter
• Prepare for a difficult interview process that will include technical questions and coding challenges
• Demonstrate your enthusiasm for technology and the company
• Continue to try even if you are initially rejected

In conclusion, working for a big tech company can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Additionally, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job by developing technical skills, creating a strong online presence, networking, and preparing for the interview process. To learn the skills required to land a job at a big tech company, sign up for these online technology courses offered by Emeritus, in tie-up with the best universities around the world.

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