“I don’t look at a man who’s expert in one area as a specialist. I look at him as a rookie in ten other areas.”
—Conor McGregor
Specialization is great.
It allows you to establish your brand, stand out in a crowded marketplace, and become known for your “superpower.”
Most Authorities will teach you to do it in some fashion. Specialize, niche, focus… all the things.
But specialization is also not-so-great. In fact, it can be a trap.
There’s this line of thinking that specialization can be a trap because people that fall into it say “no” to everything that isn’t in their specialization. You go from being a specialist to being pigeonholed into just one thing.
Is that wise? Maybe, maybe not.
If people need something beyond your specialization, you don’t get the call.
You okay with that? Maybe, maybe not.
My advice is this: you need to be known for having a “toolbox” that is appropriately sized for your market, but you need to have at least one skill that are especially known for.
Build your brand with your specialty, but always be ready to show off that you’re
I don’t think it’s wise to not specialize. It’s wise to be known as an Authority on one subject, but not a specialist in it.
What’s the difference? Having smarts is better than having skills. When people buy into the fact that you’re smart, they’re willing to give you credit in other areas as well. Skills don’t translate as well. Additionally, people — by definition — listen to an authority.