In today's fast-paced and ever-changing workforce, it's becoming increasingly important for professionals to have a balance of both doer and orchestration skills. While in the past, it may have been sufficient to specialise in one area, such as an "expert" or "IC" (individual contributor), or to focus on orchestration as a manager or leader, this is no longer the case. Having a balance of both skills allows professionals to adapt to new challenges and opportunities, and to make well-informed decisions.
Doer :
Being a doer, or an IC, involves having a deep understanding of the techniques and technologies used in a specific field, and executing specific tasks to deliver high-quality work. This includes developing new ideas and implementing solutions.
Orchestrator :
On the other hand, being an orchestrator, such as a manager or leader, involves leading teams, setting goals and priorities, and ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. It also includes effective communication with stakeholders and mentorship of team members.
Examples:
- A software engineer who specialises in developing mobile applications will have a deep understanding of mobile app architecture and implementation and will be able to deliver high-quality work. But if they also have the ability to lead a team, set goals and priorities, and communicate effectively with stakeholders, they will be able to make better decisions and adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
- A human resources professional who specialises in recruitment and talent management, but also has the ability to lead a team, set priorities, and communicate effectively with stakeholders will be more valuable and adaptable in today's fast-paced and ever-changing workforce landscape.
- A project manager in construction industry who not only excels in planning, execution, and monitoring of construction projects but also has the ability to lead a team, set priorities, and communicate effectively with stakeholders will be more valuable and adaptable in today's fast-paced and ever-changing construction industry.
- In the field of finance, an analyst who can not only analyse stock market trends but also lead a team, set priorities, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget will be more valuable and adaptable in today's fast-paced and ever-changing workforce.
- In healthcare, a healthcare professional who not only excels in providing high-quality care but also has the ability to lead a team, set priorities, and communicate effectively with stakeholders will be more valuable and adaptable in today's fast-paced and ever-changing healthcare system.
- A marketing professional who specializes in creating and implementing digital marketing strategies, but also has the ability to lead a team, set priorities, and communicate effectively with stakeholders will be more valuable and adaptable in today's fast-paced and ever-changing digital landscape.
In today's fast-paced and ever-changing workforce, it's becoming increasingly important for professionals to have a balance of both doer and orchestration skills. Having a deep understanding of the techniques and technologies used in a specific field, as well as the ability to lead, set goals, and communicate effectively, allows professionals to adapt to new challenges and opportunities and make well-informed decisions.