5 Steps to Go-Expert-Pro

5 steps to Go-Expert-Pro

Taking into consideration the rapid evolution of the online platforms and current need for more resources (which could be easily accessible at all times), the scientific/trade publishing can be considered as a possible replacement for many vocational experts/teachers.

Reality of tomorrow, which is knocking on our door today is: users shy away from personal contact and possible questioning, which makes online publishing a booming sector. The need for education does not disappear, only the format changes for its accessibility. For many users the thought process appears as follows: why risk questioning and possible embarrassment, if correct answer is not given, if one can simply acquire the necessary information in a safe manner without exposure? Readership rates are falling in general, however the actual interest in scientific resources is on the rise. (Reuters 2020)

This phenomenon may be attributed to the general introversion of the society in relation to a public forum (not social media but rather professional aspect), which can be a huge competitive advantage, once the audience is selected and targeted with proper tools. Publishing becomes easier in the aspect of promotion, however the trustworthiness of published materials leaves many users and readers questioning the often self-proclaimed experts of various fields. Once the credibility is established and confirmed- the publishing has a strong possibility of partial/complete replacement of many academic or on-the-job (vocational) resources. In the world where Google becomes the ultimate go to/authority, it becomes paramount to be able to decide which resources can indeed be trusted vs those which must be taken with a grain of salt or simply, common sense.

How to establish online publishing as a marketing tool, which can further help establishing yourself as an expert in your field?

5 steps to Go-Expert-Pro:

1. Know your WHY?

Public tends to favor the purpose and if it is good enough for Disney, Apple and Wright brothers, it is good enough for you! Define the purpose behind your drive, as this is what will get you out of bed in tough times and attract like-minded supporters, who may advance your business/lifestyle. This strategy translates into focusing your efforts on the big picture:

1.Why am I doing this? 2. How am I doing it? 3. What am I doing?

Once you establish these foundations- every single decision can be taken with their consideration, which in return generates long-lasting effects in opposite to a short-term lived trends (unless trends are your “why?” ;))

Discover more/ worth reading: Simon Sinek “Start with Why”

2. Be your own producer of: OMG!

Public does not get excited, if you are not excited! Why would anyone be attracted or interested, if you are not? Nothing can beat passion, money comes and goes but real drive comes from within- invest your time in pursuing fields you get fired up about- you will never see me posting about finance- because there is no way I can make that even remotely interesting- I am not great with with creative accounting 

Discover more/ worth reading: Ralph Lauren “50 years”

3. Be kind but take no s#%^ !

In regards to current cultural and market environment- read the room! Know the public, which you are addressing and their psychology of interaction. Publishing attracts many “armchair critics”- it is always easier to comment from the comfort of your home and relative anonymity than stand behind what you believe in. Be confident in your opinions and defend them, while keeping an open mind- no one knows everything, however, if you stand for nothing you will fall for anything. The bigger you become, the more attention you attract- be prepared for negative comments but keep in mind, any compliments or criticisms are nothing but a form of manipulation- that is why you have your: WHY? You do it for your WHY, not for the attention. True expert understands, that for some people the only way to taste a success is to get a bite out of you- so do not get discouraged 

Discover more/ worth reading: Warren Buffet “Thoughts of Chairman Buffett: Thirty Years of Unconventional Wisdom from the Sage of Omaha”

4. Consistency is power..

People trust what they recognize. This is why, knowing what you stand for allows you to connect with like-minded public, we want to recognize ourselves in the ideas/lifestyle someone else is promoting. Expert’s job is introducing or forming opinions on the new, while maintaining standards of their own and that comes from consistency. The crime of today is the constant changing of opinions to adapt to the market or public opinion, nothing more dangerous- open mind is important to explore possibilities but it will get you nowhere, if it is not supported by the framework of standard principles. What you stand for, is what your business will stand for and that makes or breaks your credibility.

Discover more/ worth reading: Frederic Martel “Mainstream”

5. It’s called: “THINKING” just go with it!

Developing a thought process which can help navigate the stream of information is a secret weapon. Expert’s job is to help others comprehend, what they do not have the time/willingness to explore deeper. Your words can be a calligrapher of torture or the most powerful cheerleader- choose wisely! In your explanations or messages to a wider public, keep in mind- if you cannot explain it to a 6 year old, you do not understand it yourself. The key is to be helpful without being condescending- maintain the curiosity by proposing a relatable content, which is not a one-and-done solution but rather a lifelong and continuous learning.

Discover more/ worth reading: David Eagleman “The Brain”