| Topic Name: |
The Generalist dilemma |
| Message Name: |
Look at portable skills |
| Date Posted: |
07/12/2001 |
| In Reply To: |
Does anyone have any experience or suggestions with how to overcome a generalist work background? Is there a niche for someone who can do many things well, but who isn't an expert in any particular subject?
In my 8 year career with one company, I've been a customer service rep, a copywriter, a publishing pre-press manager, and right now I manage quality, training and server IT.
I used to think that all this diverse experience showed my versatility and learning ability (and the fact that I willingly did whatever my company needed me to). Now, after reviewing a lot of want ads and job descriptions, I think my lack of focus may be hamstringing my job search.
Has anyone had to deal with this kind of problem? How can I overcome the fact that many professional positions seem to require years of experience in that one area? I'm afraid I'm being screened out because I was only in each career area for a year or two, even though I worked for the same company and show steady progress up the corporate ladder. |
| Message: |
Look at each job's FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES, then create a resume based on skills that can be transferred from function to function (job to job). Example: An MBA is supposed to be a manager - general management skills can be applied to a number of unrelated fields. (There are times when "hands-on" experience is required, but not always.) Since you HAVE done so many different functions/jobs, maybe you are ready to manage the entire operation?? Something to consider.
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