When Passion Projects Must Wait: The Benefits of Gaining Broader Experience Before Pursuing Your Ultimate Career Goals, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This paper explores the research-backed benefits of gaining broad, diverse work experiences early in one's career, rather than immediately pursuing a narrow "dream" role. While passion is important, jumping straight into a specialized field can leave professionals ill-prepared for the complex realities of the modern working world. Social science and management research demonstrate that exposure to various functions, industries, and responsibilities promotes flexibility, strategic thinking, and well-rounded competencies - skills prized by top employers. By building expansive professional networks and discovering alternative strengths outside their initial passions, early career "generalists" emerge uniquely qualified to adapt and excel as industries evolve. The paper highlights how leading organizations in consulting and technology value this type of multi-faceted experience, allowing new hires to rotate through different roles, projects, and locations, and outlines practical strategies for professionals to facilitate broader early learning - an approach that proves the ideal path for developing future-proof skills and positioning oneself for sustained career success, even in ultimately achieving one's most ambitious goals and dreams.