We live in a world where we’re told to specialize.
Yet – specialization may be a fast track to unemployment as increasingly, automation replaces specific tasks. Even brain surgery is predicted to be on the way out as an occupation, taken over by robotics.
If you’re not sure you want to stay in your current job – if you’re in your 30s and still struggling with a career choice – or if you’re unemployed and trying to find your niche – there is good news.
The generalist is going to rule.
Now, more than at any other time in history – the person who can quickly adapt, be open to doing many things, and is not bound by a specific specialty or agenda – will be in demand, as the economy shifts on an almost daily basis.
Tomorrow’s sought-after employee will be an idea person.
In corporate meetings, the generalist offers a wide range of ideas on potentially every aspect of the organization.
The specialist has little to say about any area other than hers or his.
Make no mistake about it – we still desperately need experts. That’s a given, and that will never change.
But we also need people who are not boxed in.
The fundamental question in this age is not: what do you want to do? But rather, what are all of the things you can be?
If you have a dozen interests, pursue them all.
Admittedly, this is an entrepreneurial approach to career building.
It’s not for everyone – but for the many people who are confused about what direction to go into, it’s not only “okay” – it’s a very good thing.
The world needs the generalist – people who are willing to step up to the plate where others have said no, because “it’s not their job.”
Embrace your diverse interests.
I salute the generalist.