Is your career currently in something of a rut? Are you struggling to find an alternative job that gives you an opportunity to go further than the job you do right now? If so, you are in good company. The vast majority of employees in the country feel that their jobs are of a generalist nature, and with so many people going for the same types of work, it can be hard to stand out from the crowd.
There is one brilliant solution to the problem, however – finding a niche in your role and making the decision to specialize. It’s a great way to make headway with your career development, makes you more valuable to employers, and also helps you differentiate from the sheer volume of generalists that work in your industry. Let’s take a closer look at why specializing in a particular subject can help you maximize the potential of your career.
Better and Higher than Everage Pay
The first – and most obvious – reason to specialize is that you will be more valued by employers. The simple fact is that as a specialist, you have a different skill set to the vast majority of other workers. And if you ensure that your niche can bring exceptional value to your employer, you will soon find how much money they feel it is worth – as evidenced by your pay check.
Higher Education for Credibility and Respect
You might be surprised at how easy extending your education is while in the workplace. For example, if you are a finance professional, it’s possible to study for an Accounting and Finance MSc online these days, and access all the academic expertise you need to drive your accounting career forward – without the hassle of travelling to a classroom. Your employers may offer to pay for you, too, as long as you commit to working with them for 2-3 years once you have qualified.
Showcase Expertise in your Field
Whether you are working towards a Ph.D. or learning about the intricacies of using a project management tool, the principle remains the same: you will be perceived as an expert in your field. You will start to feel less replaceable to your employer or clients – which is a huge problem for those with general skills as they are always worrying that they could lose their jobs or customers. Let’s say you are a dog groomer. If you were to do a course in, say, grooming long-haired canines, you are more likely to be the groomer of choice for anyone with a particularly hairy pooch. The results? You can charge a higher fee, and provide premium offerings that people will happily pay for.
Proves Commitment and Capability
When people see a specialist, they see then as someone who has worked hard to get where they are, and committed to becoming an expert. Working a few years in one field gives you a distinct edge over others who have an overall general knowledge of quite a few things but mastery at none. Whether you are developing a niche as a fitness trainer or specializing in the tech sector, all the hard work you go through proves you are capable and up to the job.