The T-shaped marketer<\/h2>\n
I base my approach on the “T-shaped marketer” model: an expert in one area (vertical bar) with broader knowledge across related disciplines (horizontal bar).<\/p>\n
This allows for specialization and versatility – a valuable combination in marketing. <\/p>\n
There is no wrong choice. Circumstances often dictate the decision.<\/p>\n
My starting point for these decisions is the following concept:<\/p>\n I revisit this concept frequently throughout the year, for myself and others. <\/p>\n Remember:<\/p>\n Consider what you genuinely enjoy and excel at. <\/p>\n Do you prefer diving deep into technical details, or do you thrive on variety and collaboration? <\/p>\n Find something you love. Your interests greatly impact job satisfaction. <\/p>\n Research the demand and salary trends for specialists and generalists in your area and industry. <\/p>\n These fluctuate as the industry changes and evolves. <\/p>\n Look at companies’ roles (e.g., VP of SEO or VP of Marketing) to gauge the value of specialization or generalization as you advance.<\/p>\n Many worry that specialization could limit relevance or career growth, with generalist roles seeming more valued. <\/p>\n However, both paths offer opportunities as you advance – and require continuous skill improvement.<\/p>\n Getting paid as a senior specialist (e.g., paid search) may be harder than a generalist, but true expertise commands a premium. <\/p>\n Focus on what you can control and excel at. It creates opportunities over time, though patience is key. Expertise and skill are eventually recognized and rewarded, even if it’s challenging initially.<\/p>\n Network with professionals who have taken different paths. <\/p>\n Ask about their experiences, challenges faced, and rewards reaped. <\/p>\n Their insights can be invaluable when weighing your options.<\/p>\n Still unsure? <\/p>\n Try different roles or projects to experience specialization and generalization. <\/p>\n This can help you discover what truly resonates.<\/p>\n There’s no one-size-fits-all answer about whether you should develop broad or deep subject matter expertise. <\/p>\n The best path is the one that aligns with your individual strengths, interests and long-term goals.<\/p>\n Carefully considering these factors can help you make an informed decision that sets you up for a fulfilling and successful marketing career.<\/p>\n![\"Past](\"https:\/\/searchengineland.com\/wp-content\/seloads\/2024\/05\/past-future-path.jpg.webp\")
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The case to be a deep subject matter expert<\/h2>\n
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The case to be broad<\/h2>\n
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5 tips to help you make your decision<\/h2>\n
Assess your strengths and passions<\/h3>\n
2. Consider the market<\/h3>\n
3. Think long term<\/h3>\n
4. Talk to people in the field<\/h3>\n
5. Experiment and explore<\/h3>\n
What’s the right path for you?<\/h2>\n
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