As a generalist too, I cannot agree more. And although I understand why people with a T-shaped profile are victorious in their endeavors (they have expertise in one specific area, along with a modest amount of broad knowledge), I still don't want to go vertical 😅
Yeah agree especially if they are looking for a specific skillset to solve a specific issue, like redesign the app. Perhaps got to find the companies with problems that require a generalist solution?
100% the minor problem being then I'm looking for a small business that could use a generalist but also sponsor a relocation to the Netherlands. #BrexitWasStupid
Most of the big corporate sponsors hire specialists.
Maybe I can try to convince them I'm a generalist specialist. 😆
I'm a Design Lead, but gunning for Head of Creative so that I can shine as a generalist. I've taken over my company's communication strategy, so all the writing, visual design, digital and content marketing skills are being used now.
I do function as a UX/UI designer (that can code), but don't get to do enough of that here, so branching out is essential. UX Team of One :)
I must say I love the adaptability of being a generalist.
I do have similar feelings as you towards marketing - it often felt so dirty and being talked into, that I'm really avoiding this. Lots of terrible examples from big companies e.g. Blizzards Diablo Immortal, all those pay-to-win mechanics (one, were my son was recently trapped into big time)... may I ask what marketing approach did work for you and what your journey along that way was? I would be really interested to read more about your tour in that territory. Any chance you would elaborate on that?
I accepted that there’s no escaping from having to do marketing, so I went and did it consistently. Even tried a #100daysofmarketing challenge. It ended being good practice at finding an approach that I can live with, that doesnt feel dirty to me. I realised if I approach marketing as just helping others, without expecting or a pitch at the end, it worked for me. I created free tools, help answer questions for free, contribute to communities, even started some myself.
I feel like I’m similar and always viewed my generalism as an advantage, but like all advantages, they can become liabilities in the wrong context or situation.
As a generalist too, I cannot agree more. And although I understand why people with a T-shaped profile are victorious in their endeavors (they have expertise in one specific area, along with a modest amount of broad knowledge), I still don't want to go vertical 😅
Yep, it’s optional to go vertical. I’m sure we can find opportunities that are just as good for us generalists! 💪
Generalists of the world unite!
Also a proud generalist, which I think works wonders as a consultant, freelancer or entrepreneur. Even an entrepreneurial colleague within an company.
But I do also find it makes for a tough sell to new companies. Or maybe I'm not pitching it properly... 😉
Yeah agree especially if they are looking for a specific skillset to solve a specific issue, like redesign the app. Perhaps got to find the companies with problems that require a generalist solution?
100% the minor problem being then I'm looking for a small business that could use a generalist but also sponsor a relocation to the Netherlands. #BrexitWasStupid
Most of the big corporate sponsors hire specialists.
Maybe I can try to convince them I'm a generalist specialist. 😆
PM roles tend to be more generalists... considered that?
You’re a UX designer right Zane? That’s quite specialist!
I'm a Design Lead, but gunning for Head of Creative so that I can shine as a generalist. I've taken over my company's communication strategy, so all the writing, visual design, digital and content marketing skills are being used now.
I do function as a UX/UI designer (that can code), but don't get to do enough of that here, so branching out is essential. UX Team of One :)
I must say I love the adaptability of being a generalist.
I do have similar feelings as you towards marketing - it often felt so dirty and being talked into, that I'm really avoiding this. Lots of terrible examples from big companies e.g. Blizzards Diablo Immortal, all those pay-to-win mechanics (one, were my son was recently trapped into big time)... may I ask what marketing approach did work for you and what your journey along that way was? I would be really interested to read more about your tour in that territory. Any chance you would elaborate on that?
I accepted that there’s no escaping from having to do marketing, so I went and did it consistently. Even tried a #100daysofmarketing challenge. It ended being good practice at finding an approach that I can live with, that doesnt feel dirty to me. I realised if I approach marketing as just helping others, without expecting or a pitch at the end, it worked for me. I created free tools, help answer questions for free, contribute to communities, even started some myself.
I feel like I’m similar and always viewed my generalism as an advantage, but like all advantages, they can become liabilities in the wrong context or situation.
Yep for sure. Liability when the situation requires a specialist, like freelance or a job