How To Become An Industry Expert

If you were to ask us how long it takes to become an ‘expert’ at something, the truth is there is no exact timeline! Nor is there an exact definition of what being an expert means. People will have their own definitions and experiences. However, there are a few things that people look out for when seeking an expert's opinion. 

In this blog, we share with you our top tips on coming a leading expert in your industry so that you can be the person that people come to when they need a trusted professional. Increase your likeability, magnetize clients in your direction, and get your work published with all of these ideas.

1. Read the top 3 books by other leaders in your industry.

It’s important to stay updated on what other people in your field are sharing with the world. We recommend checking out books that have been published within the last three or five years so that your information is current and relevant. Not to mention they are great conversation starters when you follow step two!

You don’t need to agree with everything they’re saying! That’s the beauty of it. You may start to really define your niche by getting more comfortable with your specific expertise. 

2. Regularly attend industry ‘meet-ups’.

You don’t need to be on this journey alone. In order to become known, you need to put yourself out there to be seen, Attending industry meet-ups in both your local area and also within your country is a great start when it comes to networking and building community. You want to be talking to as many people as possible, sharing your knowledge and from this, get people talking about you!

Learn more about how to grow your interior design business by embracing a community mindset

3. Actively engage with industry experts

Building on steps two and three, connect with other experts. Social media makes this easier than it used to be. The fastest way to be considered an expert? Get other experts talking about you! Whether you get a podcast feature or are featured in a publication, or even looking into some sort of collaboration with another person in your industry. 

Regularly dedicate time to relationship building. It requires patience and consistency but it’s worth it!

4. Keep up to date with the latest education in your industry

Keeping up with any new education within your industry is very useful! When you know the latest trends you can then actively participate in conversations. It also shows people that you are trustworthy, dedicated to your work, and progressive. If you are new to a domain and looking to rapidly immerse yourself, invest in education seminars or courses. Or even take courses run by others who you look up to! This is a great way to network. In some cases, local community colleges can offer an affordable option to learn about a specific topic. Another option is to utilize a site like Udemy or Coursera that offers quick topic courses on nearly any subject at a very affordable price point.

5. Attend industry conferences and tradeshows

You’ve probably noticed a theme here, networking really is the best way to become an expert in your industry. To be considered an expert people need to know who you are, what you offer, and why you’re the best. 

Another great way to network is to attend tradeshows and conferences. National industry tradeshows and conferences afford the opportunity to almost guarantee that top leaders in your industry will be under the same roof. In addition, personal connections made through face-to-face interactions will have a much greater impact than potentially spending months pursuing meetings through more virtual communication channels.

6. Start your own podcast and/or nourish your personal blog

Podcasting is all the rage right now. This information and conversational way of sharing information is much more digestible for the general public. It’s a great way to position yourself as an expert, share your wisdom, and connect with others in your industry. If podcasting isn’t your thing why not consider starting a blog? Ensure you have a space where you consistently share your knowledge, client testimonials, and results. 

Looking for inspiration? Here are 5 interior design podcasts that you’ll want to binge!

7. Invest in professional branding

Having a professional-looking website with consistent branding throughout your different channels is important. You want people to know you and recognize you in the ‘crowd’. Branding does exactly this. It's the foundation of your business and marketing. It’s worth investing in professional help and taking the time to create a brand that shows off who you are. 

No matter which step you take, keep going! Nobody becomes an expert overnight, it takes time to build the know, like, and trust factor. If you have business and/or marketing and branding questions, come chat with us! We’re here to help. Click here to schedule a Complimentary Brand Consultation.

Like this article? Pin it now! 📌