I come from a content background and want to break into tech (product, software engineering) I'm fielding two offers, one from a FAANG (Strategic Partner Management, Creators) and one from non-FAANG (Influencer Growth) Clearly, neither of these are tech-centric, but these are my options and they each come with their strengths. Both are highly relevant to my background. For the non-FAANG, I'd be in a more senior role, more responsibilities. The biggest perceived strength is that with FAANG, the name recognition makes you highly marketable for future roles. That seems like it makes sense for tech roles, but does it hold for non-tech roles?
All things being equal go where you will do your best work
Hold true for non tech as well.Depends on the non tech but for products sure. Even more so for esoteric roles like vendor management , client partnerships etc
FAANG (except N) are the 6 most valuable companies in the entire WORLD. Those names are very prestigious and recognizable no matter your field. Definitely pick FAANG. With no regard to the name brand, the network you'll build is probably more valuable than anywhere else. Senior roles are lesser companies are valued similarly to a mid-level role at FAANG by the way.
Go to the smaller company. Better chance of getting into tech role there. Remember, you can't you non tech FAANG job to get a tech job elsewhere! You need to get into the tech job while at a company, 100x more likely than thinking you get hire as an external with no experience.
I don’t think it even holds for tech roles
Why do you think so? I acknowledge I probably am overemphasizing the potential advantage having FAANG on your resume makes, but I don't really know either way.
It certainly holds for tech roles at FNG.