Should you call yourself an Expert?

Yes! … and Nooooo!

What is an Expert?

Copy-pasted from TheFreeDictionary.com

ex·pert n. A person with a high degree of skill in or knowledge of a certain subject.

Read more at Wikipedia.

It’s really NOT like being a rocket scientist! It shouldn’t be that intimidating.

Are you an Expert?

Be honest!

1. Are you more knowledgeable than many in your field?
2. Do you have more experience than many in your field?
3. Could many past and current clients attest of your skills?
4. Do other professionals in your field refer to you?
5. Have you “been there, done that”?
6. Do you find yourself giving advice to others in your profession?
7. Do you know your audience, market and market trends?
8. Do you know the answer to most problems that may arise in your field?
9. Are you innovative and resourceful?
10. Do you have credentials and a proven track of success?

Well, I think you will find out that, like Seth Godin says: “Everyone is an expert about something” and that you ARE an Expert whether you market yourself as such or not.

Isn’t that bragging?

I’m sure you’ve seen under qualified competitors get the job you deserve because they were boastful and not afraid of “tooting their own horn”. A little confidence goes a long way. When expressed, that is. If you don’t list your credentials and highlight your experience, no one will ever know. Your customers can’t read minds!

And yes, your awards and designations do communicate how committed you are to your profession.

Does it make sense?

Branding yourself as an expert is kind of nice! People trust experts, listen to experts and follow their advice. You create a name that sells for itself.

When does it work?

A brand is a promise and your prospects want to know that you are qualified to deliver what you promise. The question is…What do you promise? This is the defining element. This factor will determine why all the “bragging” will work for one and won’t for others. “It’s not what you can do, but how you can help them!”

It works when you establish how your competencies will work for your prospects and when you focus on benefits and not features.

It works when you tell them how your know-how will add value to their business, their lifestyle, their pocket...

It works when you translate everything into terms of “what this means to you is…”

Is it THAT simple?

‘Course not! After communicating your proficiency, you have to actually deliver. Backing up perception with action is what really pays the bills. It’s why you see many are number one on Google and number “where is their name?” on the sales reports. Poor follow up and poor performance.

Does it have to be “Expert”?

Some prefer “Leader” or “Specialist”. Some even call themselves “smart”. Some are "the best" or have an “Ask (insert name)” website. The truth about the word Expert is that is derived from Latin that means “Experienced”. You could have been the smartest in your class, gone to Medical School and specialized in a particular area…if you never practiced…would you be the Expert?

So…should I?

Yes! If you have what it takes and will continue to reinvent yourself to live up to the title.

No! If you are afraid you won’t be able to perform under Expert’s pressure.

But one thing I’m sure of, you should let your prospects (and even your competitors) know what you bring to the table and how your uniqueness works towards delivering your brand’s promise. If you are not able to tell others how wonderful you are at what you do, then, who is?

Best,

Your Branding Expert

For more information, connect with me:

My Website| Positive Mommies Network | E-mail | Facebook | Twitter

About the Author:

Elayna Fernandez is a proud mother, founder of the Positive Mommies Network, blogging/social media/web design instructor, and marketing/branding strategist. Her company, Designed 2 Impress, is dedicated to assisting individuals and small businesses in creating successful and consistent brand and achieve their marketing goals.

Thank you for taking the time to reading my post. Have a powerful day!

This article is intended to educate and it constitutes the sole intellectual property of Elayna Fernandez and Designed 2 Impress. Any full or partial reproduction or duplication without the author’s express written consent is strictly prohibited and will be considered copyright infringement.