T-shaped Profiles around you
January 17, 2021
It has been a while since I wrote an article, there were a lot of excuses not to write, but also not much a motivation either. Recently, I gained my mojo back and decided to go behind the keyboard!
I have been introduced to the different type of profiles during the people leadership roles that I was executing. When I reflected on it for my own, figured that there is a chance to upgrade better version of myself. However this article is not about me, more about my perception for the known profiles and preferences from leadership perspective. Hope that helps you to discover better version of yourselves too.
First and foremost, ideas mentioned in this article represent my thoughts and my thoughts only. I would me more than happy to have a discussion if you disagree, so that I learn another perspective.Having said that, let me begin with my plain description of known profiles. So far, I have worked with not only T-shaped but also “Dash”, “I”, and “X” profiles. Some of them were my colleagues and some were my managers.
Each of them is no better / worse than the other. Keep in mind that these profiles are not necessarily attached to you, nor defining you, they are attached to the role you execute. When you feel like a misfit, there you will notice that your preferences are confronted by the profile requirements of the role.
“Dash” profiles
These people are so called “glue layers”. They hold abstract information for different domains, which might not necessarily linked to each other, yet they can adapt quickly to the changes, however they do not prefer or need to get deep into the content. This makes them perfect for project lead roles / assignments. Also some of the biz.dev and marketing guys were also felt closer to “Dash” profile. It is quite straightforward to get along with them, but there are some pitfalls that you need to be aware of, as if you are driven by the details and want to understand with data points, these profiles might not meet your expectations as they are more focused on bringing pieces together, not to have the comprehensive understanding of each and every detail .Just be aware…
“I” profiles
This requires a solid background on a domain where you can get deep into the content, be subject matter of expert, a go-to person. Not surprisingly, they are really good at engineering assignments. The ones who worked on this profile for so long become numb to disturbance. Also there is a high chance to be blind for the changes. I think everyone passes along this profile for a certain time within their careers.
“T” profiles
These profiles are usually at mid of their career. They poses the domain knowledge, leverage from their experiences and apply for it horizontally for some other domains. Cross functional capabilities are pretty dominant. These are the leaders that are well recognized, and lead without authority or hierarchy. In this profile, you need to be aware of your preferences because it will mostly push you to your limits. I have seen many colleagues, prefer to be an “I” or “Dash” after spending sometime in this one. Lately, this profile proven to be catalyser for agile way of working also.
“X” profiles
I had a chance to work with some “X” profiles. Therefore my observations are rather limited or can be biased. I think these are the really unique people with a great energy around them. In addition to the things written above for other profiles, they also add to be the dreamers / visionary colleagues. Pretty strong for expressing theirselves, quick with the words, great influencers. You find your self in the flow when they are around you. But of course there is a catch, you need someone that pulls you down to ground. There is a thin line between becoming a visionary vs delusional. Just be aware…
So, you would made it this far, yay! Reflect on yourself and feel free to drop a comment if you have any questions or remarks.
Cheers!