It was more than money. Back then the crazy Faang pay bump was less of a thing. But the chance to be trusted with broad autonomy and work with brilliant people

It was more than money. Back then the crazy Faang pay bump was less of a thing. But the chance to be trusted with broad autonomy and work with brilliant people on projects that could help billions of people is something very special. People were drawn there by 20% time back in the day. This is barely a thing now, but the difference seems to be covered by the increased FAANG bucks.