Thanks for taking the course! 

Leading a tech team at a startup versus a FAANG company does indeed have commonalities, such as the tactical work of aligning the codebase, conducting code reviews, and establishing guidelines to steer the team. Additionally, laying out directions and plans for the team is a critical responsibility in both environments. However, the mindset and skill set required can be quite different.

In a startup, the environment is smaller with fewer resources, necessitating a tech lead to be more versatile. You are not just thinking about tech; you are deeply integrated into various aspects of the business. You may work very closely with PMs or even marketing teams to develop high-level plans and provide technical suggestions that can shape the company’s direction. This multifaceted involvement requires a tech lead to wear multiple hats, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.

On the other hand, in a FAANG company, the focus is often more specialized. As a tech lead, you need to be highly skilled in your specific area. While you may still think long-term, your focus is more within the engineering scope rather than at the company level. Your role involves a deeper technical expertise, and your strategic contributions are likely confined to your domain rather than influencing the broader business direction. The larger scale and resources available in FAANG companies also mean you can rely on established processes and teams, whereas in a startup, you might be responsible for creating and implementing these processes yourself.

Moreover, the pace and approach to problem-solving can differ significantly. In a startup, you often need to move quickly, iterate frequently, and be prepared for a dynamic, ever-changing environment. Decisions are made rapidly, and the impact of your work is immediately visible. Conversely, in a FAANG company, the approach can be more methodical, with a stronger emphasis on stability, scalability, and long-term sustainability. The decisions you make might go through multiple layers of review and have a more prolonged timeline before they come to fruition.

In summary, while the core responsibilities of a tech lead may overlap between startups and FAANG companies, the context in which you operate, the breadth of your involvement, and the depth of your expertise can vary significantly. Understanding these nuances is key to effectively leading a tech team in either environment.