Growing Startup or BigTech

Hi There,

Congrats on getting multiple offers! This is an interesting question, and really depends on you and what you are solving for. Sounds like you are looking at exit ops/long-term career planning as a priority over something like compensation, geography, function etc. What I would say is that you probably need to think through what you want/prioritize out of your career. Big Tech will most likely have the better brand name, especially if its a F.A.A.N.G -esque company and the total comp package I would imagine would most likely be better. There is also the perks of the network you would get from working at a BigTech company since they usually attract some incredibly sharp individuals. However, if you are wanting to stay in one place, your promotion timelines might be longer than at a startup and WLB at BigTech Strategy teams isn't a guarantee to be better than a late stage startup.

The startup could be a great opportunity if you really believe in the product/service and if you see yourself there long-term. You will most likely have an easier time getting promoted and your equity would most likely shoot up in value pretty fast (Assuming they do quickly grow). Also, getting some startup experience (Even Series E) could be a good stepping stone if you see yourself staying in the startup ecosystem or going more into late stage investing like Growth Equity.

Honestly, you really cannot go wrong with either as they both sound like fantastic opportunities. It really is going to depend on what you want out of your career.

Hope this helps!

-Ankit A.

Hello!! If you want something stable, with a big name and a bit more breathing room after consulting, Big Tech sounds like a great fit…

If you want more ownership, faster decisions, and the thrill of building something that’s growing like crazy, then the startup could be amazing! but it will probably be more intense…

Since you’re already feeling a bit tired from the grind (I get it!), I think Big Tech might give you a chance to recharge, learn a new pace, and still keep your CV looking strong. And honestly… you can always make the switch to a startup later if you still want….

Hi there,

Here’s how I’d break it down:

1. Brand & signalling

• BigTech: Strong, globally recognised brand; keeps doors open for future moves, especially if you want to pivot again (e.g. back to consulting, corporate strategy, VC, or another tech player).
• Startup: Can still carry strong brand weight if it’s a well-known scale-up, but more dependent on its trajectory. If it falters, the signalling value is weaker.

2. Role & lifestyle fit

• BigTech: Typically better work-life balance, clearer career paths, and structured learning. Might feel slower-paced vs. consulting. However, depends a lot on the firm.
• Startup: High pace, broader scope, more ownership – but often longer hours and less stability.

3. Long-term positioning

• If you want optionality and a softer landing after consulting, BigTech is the safer bet. You can always move into a startup later with BigTech + consulting on your CV.
• If you want high-risk/high-reward exposure now and are energised by ambiguity, the startup could accelerate your learning and network in ways a large org can’t.

4. Your current state
You mention being tired after consulting and feeling more drawn to BigTech – that’s important. Burnout can make startup life overwhelming, even if exciting on paper.

Given your profile, brand-consciousness, and need for a recharge, BigTech is likely the better next step. You’ll still be in a strong position to jump into the startup world later, but without burning out right after leaving consulting.

Happy to help you prep – feel free to reach out.

Best, 

Evelina

Partially, it sounds like your mind is already made up for the bigtech.

Especially since you're mentioning you would like more stability and a sustainable schedule after consulting.

It's worth having a chat with a few people from each organisation to get a more refined understanding of what to expect in each place. 

Best,
Cristain