Build Lines, Not Dots

Read time: 4 minutes

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Build lines, not dots.

What if your entire career could be summed up in a single image? Would it be a scattering of disconnected dots, or a series of purposeful lines?

This powerful concept has stuck with me since I first encountered it in this 2010 article by Mark Suster, a successful entrepreneur turned venture capitalist. His unique perspective, straddling both sides of the investment table, lends weight to his insights.

In the context of venture capital, Suster advises to "Invest in lines, not dots." Founders and startups worth betting on are those who can showcase traction and clear progress over time.

The same principle applies powerfully to our careers. Just as investors seek startups with demonstrable progress, employers and clients in every field are looking for professionals who show consistent growth and achievement.

They want to invest in hiring lines, not dots — people who have demonstrated clear progress and consistent achievement over time.

In this article, we'll explore how you can apply this 'lines, not dots' philosophy to propel your career forward, regardless of your industry or experience level.

Understanding the Analogy

Imagine your career as a canvas. Dots represent isolated achievements or experiences—singular points that stand alone.

Lines, on the other hand, symbolize a series of connected events, experiences, or accomplishments over time.

Building lines means focusing on creating a coherent narrative of progress rather than chasing disconnected achievements.

The Power of Building Lines

1. Consistency Over Time

While dots might represent sporadic bursts of success, lines emphasize consistent effort and improvement.

Regular, incremental progress often leads to more sustainable career growth than occasional big wins.

This approach values persistent effort and continuous development.

2. Skill Development

A line represents a journey of continuous learning and skill acquisition.

Each experience builds upon the previous one, creating a clear trajectory of expertise.

This cumulative growth is often more valuable than isolated skill jumps.

3. Networking and Relationships

Lines can represent ongoing connections and collaborations with colleagues and mentors.

Building and maintaining professional relationships over time is typically more beneficial than brief, one-time interactions.

These sustained connections form a support network crucial for long-term career success.

4. Crafting a Career Narrative

A line creates a clear story of your professional journey, making it easier for employers or clients to understand your value.

This coherent narrative helps in crafting compelling resumes and portfolios that showcase growth and direction.

5. Adaptability

The line approach allows for course corrections and pivots, encouraging professionals to view their careers as evolving journeys rather than rigid, predetermined paths.

This flexibility is crucial in today's rapidly changing job market.

6. Long-term Vision

Building lines encourages thinking about long-term career goals and how current actions contribute to future aspirations.

It promotes strategic career planning rather than opportunistic job-hopping.

7. Resilience

A line-based approach helps maintain motivation during less exciting periods, as you see them as part of a larger trajectory.

It provides a buffer against setbacks, as your career isn't defined by a single event or achievement.

Practical Steps to Build Lines

• Seek roles that build upon your previous experiences

• Engage in continuous learning and professional development

• Maintain long-term professional relationships

• Pursue a consistent area of expertise or a logical progression of skills

• Regularly reflect on how your current position aligns with your long-term goals

In Conclusion

By focusing on building lines rather than dots, you can create a more robust, adaptable, and fulfilling career path.

This approach demonstrates clear progression and purpose, leading to sustained success and satisfaction in your professional life.

Remember, your career is not just a collection of jobs or achievements—it's a continuous journey of growth and development.

Start drawing your line today.

Thank you for reading,

/CJ

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