The Job Markets

He also explains that every type of profession can be considered either a "winner takes all" type of market, or an "auction" market.

I'll break down these two types: in a winner takes all market, mastery (or at least proficiency) of one skill is the most important thing. An example from the book-- if you're a comedy writer, the most important thing that matters is your ability to write good scripts. You wouldn't enter this "winner takes all" market and then try to get really good at carpentry-- it simple doesn't serve a purpose in your career endeavors, and won't help you become a better writer.

Alternatively, in auction markets, it’s best to build and accumulate a variety of different skills. For example, a venture capitalist does many things -- pure strategic allocation of capital is just one aspect of their job. He or she also needs to be a great networker, have above average communication and presentation abilities, be able to keep up with market trends, and have a deep sense for product and business strategy.

An auction market, by contrast, is less structured: There are many different types of career capital, and each person might generate a unique collection. - Newport, Deep Work