Jack of all trades

"𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐨𝐧𝐞,....

…though oftentimes better than master of one. Yes, that is the full and original quote.

Originally meant as a compliment for those with broad knowledge, the phrase has evolved into a critique, implying a lack of depth in any single area.

I see this shift in perception being mirrored in how some businesses prioritize hiring. Many now favour specialists with deep expertise in a single field, sometimes overlooking the value of those with diverse, transferable skills.

I recall being asked by a former colleague, who had worked for me some years earlier “How did you move from product management into supply chain?”

While my answer at the time was less eloquent, it comes down to one thing: 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬

When you work in any field for a significant period, you don’t just gain expertise in a specific area—you also develop critical skills like leadership, negotiation, and strategic thinking. These are the skills that transcend industries and functions.

Organizations, particularly startups or those undergoing significant change, need more than just “masters of one.” They need individuals who understand the challenges across departments—whether it’s product, supply chain, or sales—and can help operationalize the business to minimize friction and drive results.

To be clear, specialists are invaluable. Their deep knowledge drives innovation and excellence. But businesses thrive when complemented by those with cross-functional experience—the “Jack of all trades” who can adapt to the evolving needs of the organization.

In my experience, it’s this balance that creates resilience and long-term success.
What’s your take? How does your organization value breadth versus depth of experience?