I have been thinking about generalist v/s specialists.
What should you be going into the 2020s?
I think a specialist works great if you are working in a big company or you are an independent consultant.
Eg -
- ReactJS Performance Consultant
- Social Media Growth for SaaS
- JavaScript Expert
If you are an employee in a small/medium-sized company, you are better off being a generalist.
A person who can wear multiple hats, and act as an enabler for the business.
Why?
Because a small shop will not always need your Social Media Growth Skills or ReactJS skills. You will also have to prove yourself valuable when the work you are best at is not available. So being a generalist is more helpful in that case.
This can be thought of as a converse too.
If you see yourself as a generalist or want to be a generalist, work for a small or medium-sized company.
If you want to specialize, go independent or get a job in a big company.
I think a combination of both experiences works the best.