3.2.1 - Atomic Scaling: Skills

3 Ideas

I.

Make a list: Write down all the steps needed to create and deliver your service or product. Then list all the skills those steps require

II.

Hire “T-shaped” people: Invest in “T-shaped” people with a growth mindset, individuals who are both generalists—possessing a broad set of valuable skills—and experts—being among the best in their field within a narrow discipline.

III.

Focus on team performance: Focus on cultivating team performance rather than hunting for individual talent

2 Quotes

I.

“We value “T-shaped” people. This recipe is important for success at Valve. We often have to pass on people who are very strong generalists without expertise, or vice versa. An expert who is too narrow has difficulty collaborating. A generalist who doesn’t go deep enough in a single area ends up on the margins, not really contributing as an individual.”

-Gabe Newell, Co-Founder at Valve

II

“Focus on team performance, not individual talent.”

-lkka Paananen, Co-founder & CEO at Supercell

1 Question

What skills are you lacking? Don’t laid back: you always have room for improvement. Focus on your education and training this year and boost your productivity to reach the next level.

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