Seonglae ChoUnderstanding Generalists
A generalist is not someone who lacks specialized skills, but rather an individual who excels at structuring and synthesizing broad knowledge across multiple domains. This unique ability sets them apart from specialists and creates distinctive value.
Key Characteristics of Generalists
- Strong knowledge integration abilities
- Excellent at connecting diverse concepts
- Skilled at creating structured frameworks
- Adaptable learning approach
- Broad interest in various subjects
- Comfort with crossing disciplinary boundaries
Career Development
While most people naturally gravitate towards specialization to gain influence in society, successful generalists take a different path. They build their unique toolbox through diverse experiences and continuously adapt others' insights into their own innovative solutions.
Best Practices for Generalists
- Embrace versatility across different fields
- Focus on developing knowledge structuring skills
- Build connections between seemingly unrelated domains
- Maintain flexibility in career choices and learning paths
The undercover generalist
Since starting out as an independent contractor, I’ve always felt a tension between being a generalist software engineer, yet having to market myself as a specialist. I’ve been wanting to write about it for years and even have kept some notes for that purpose. Recently I came across an article by Ben Collins-Sussman, which gave me the last bit of inspiration I needed, even though his article only indirectly touches on the topic.
https://ochagavia.nl/blog/the-undercover-generalist/
Expert Generalist
Expert Generalists
Being an Expert Generalist should be treated as a first-class skill, one that can be assessed and taught.
https://martinfowler.com/articles/expert-generalist.html
