Jack of all trades or master of one?
I put up a poll on Instagram two days ago on what people would prefer to possess: a jacket of all trades or a master of one? The results? 79% of participants voted they’d rather be a jack of all trades. If I could take these answers further, I definitely would. I’d want to know their reasonings behind their choices. Frankly, I cannot muster the energy to do so thus, I will speak my thoughts and throw in a few studies along the way.
The question in a different light is equivalent to generalists vs experts. Learning many skills can come in handy (it's also a fun thing to do) but, learning valuable skills, that's another story. You could be great at many different subjects but what is the purpose of that? You’re essentially spreading yourself too thin; not allowing growth in certain areas. You cannot fully develop and progress in an area unless your full attention is dedicated. I can appreciate that being skilled in multiple areas can give you more opportunities allows you to be more open than those who are only experts in one field. However, this is a mistake, you’re only limiting yourself with this belief. As you can already tell I’m pretty biased here, but I do understand the benefits of a generalist, let’s begin.
Why be a generalist?
Keeping the door open is what it’s like to be a generalist. You have all of these skills that can lead to many opportunities. Your ability to understand would be greater than that of a specialist due to the broader knowledge possessed. Not being limited is probably the biggest factor in becoming a generalist, hopping from one thing to another is prevalent in this century. Every year you’re introduced to new concepts, ideas, and opportunities, it’s difficult not to dabble in multiple areas. Managers tend to be generalists as they’re usually well-versed in everything but are better at delegating than performing.
Why be an expert?
To dedicate your time and effort into one profession/skill can be perceived as a risk to many unless what you have learned is valuable to the masses, it’s in demand, and supply is low. This is when being an expert pays off lucratively. Your attention will not be interrupted by the latest trends as you only have one focus and that is to continue improving. The in-depth knowledge you possess will be sought after from those seeking your help and your credentials will be trusted through the proof of your dedication.
The balance? The solve?
Although I’m biased towards specialism my overall stance is to be both. Whenever you’re an expert at something it’s unlikely you’re not skilled in other areas. Focusing solely on one skill and not giving attention to anything else is a huge risk you may not want to take. The solve to this question would be to pick two or three skills to flourish in and go from there. That way you will be fully diversified and still capable of becoming an expert. The rush of learning a skill is the only thing stopping someone from attaining multiple skills. Focus on one until you’re competent then introduce another. Let’s make the effort to learn several monetizable skills to ensure continued opportunities and reduce risk of obsoletion