Sector Specialisation - I specialise in specific sectors

Introduction

The ability to focus on developing skills in a specific sector allows for rapid growth and deeper wisdom. One can move on to other sectors and be more ready to meet their challenges by knowing the process of specialising. Like the stages of building a house, our career is also built in stages, one brick and one skill at a time. So master a sector, allow your mind to grasp its every skill. The more often we practice new skills, the better we will become at them. A person with many skills in a sector then becomes known as a specialist. 

Benefits of sector specialisation

1. Increased employability in that sector.

2. Being able to specialise one's skills.

3. Learning skills that can also be applied in other sectors.

Skill example

Through my passion for the education sector, I specialised many of my skills. These now include being able to tell good stories and speak confidently in front of large groups of people. I also developed the skills needed to create content and to assess others. 

Tanya’s  story

Tanya is a 29-year-old primary school teacher. Recently three differently-abled students have joined her grade 6 class. She is one of three educators with differently-abled students. Tanya is extremely worried as she believes she is ill-equipped to teach learners with different needs. She has found in the last week that much of her approach is unsuitable for her new learners. Tanya approaches her principle to discuss these issues as she feels her lack of skill will impact her new students negatively. 

In her discussion, Tanya mentions that she doesn’t have separate techniques and methods for teaching differently-abled students. Her students are also learning at a different pace from the regular students, and this is causing her to fall behind. Tanya also brings to the attention of the principal, the mental strain this is causing her as she doesn’t know how to teach differently-abled students. The principal seems to understand her plight. After speaking with the other two educators, the principal suggests the educators attend workshops to build their skills to cope with the new classroom dynamic. 

Tanya is pleased with this suggestion. She decides to attend the workshops on different techniques and methods for teaching differently-abled students, teaching styles, building confidence in differently-abled learners, and coping mechanisms for educators, to name a few. Tanya has found these workshops to be life-saving. She feels more capable now and is excited to put these new skills to use and be of benefit to her new students. 

After several weeks and several workshops, Tanya is more relaxed and enjoying this new teaching experience. The workshops have equipped her to handle and deal with different situations in her classroom. Tanya is grateful to her principal for his suggestions as well as being able to attend these workshops as they have given her very specific skills which she previously did not have.

How to specialise in a sector

Becoming a specialist in a particular sector requires a combination of education, experience, and dedication. Here are some steps you can take to become a specialist in a sector:

1. Choose a sector: Decide on a sector that you are interested in and passionate about. Consider your skills, strengths, and interests, and research the job market and career opportunities in that sector.
2. Get an education: Depending on the sector, you may need to obtain a relevant degree or certification. Look for programs that offer specialised training in the sector you have chosen.
3. Gain experience: Look for entry-level positions or internships in your chosen sector to gain hands-on experience. You can also volunteer your time or take on freelance projects to gain additional experience.
4. Build a network: Attend industry events and conferences, join relevant associations or organisations, and connect with other professionals in your sector. Building a strong network can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments, as well as provide you with opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
5. Continue learning: Stay up-to-date on new technologies, regulations, and trends in your sector. This can involve taking continuing education courses, attending seminars or workshops, and reading industry publications.
6. Specialise in a particular area: Once you have gained some experience in your sector, consider specialising in a particular area. This can help you differentiate yourself from other professionals and become a go-to expert in your field.

Remember that becoming a specialist in a sector requires dedication and hard work. By following these steps and staying committed to your chosen sector, you can build a successful career and become a respected professional in your field.