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Key Takeaways Get crystal clear on your non-negotiables.
Study real decisions, not public declarations.
Interview the company back.
Decide whether your values can thrive, not just survive.
With repeated layoffs, public controversies and growing scrutiny around how technology and AI are shaping our lives, finding a tech company that’s doing meaningful work can feel like a daunting, if not impossible, task. I know, because I’m a career and executive coach for tech leaders, many of whom are working diligently to make a positive change in the world while simultaneously managing pressure from boards and investors.
The truth is, there’s no such thing as a “perfectly” virtuous tech company in a capitalist society. Every leadership team must make tradeoffs and please stakeholders. That said, if you are clear about your values and intentional in evaluating employers, you can find a tech company you’re proud to work for. Here are four practical steps to help you identify an organization aligned with how you want to lead and move through the world.
1. Get crystal clear on your non-negotiables
Start by defining your requirements for a company. These aren’t your aspirational values, but your non-negotiables. Develop this list before you have a job offer in front of you, as it can be tempting to rationalize and compromise your stance when an exciting title or compensation package is on the table.
If these requirements aren’t explicit, they will quickly erode. Examples might include a demonstrated commitment to inclusion, ethical data practices, transparency from leadership or a willingness to prioritize long-term impact over short-term wins. For instance, one of my clients refused to work for a company that claimed to value diversity but lacked representation of historically marginalized groups at the C-suite level, even though the role would have accelerated her career. This clarity ensured she didn’t waste time interviewing with organizations that required her to ignore her red flags.
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