1. It engrains what you know.
Nothing helps deepen knowledge as effectively as sharing it.
2. It expands what you know.
Sharing your expertise means inviting a new conversation. If you keep your eyes, ears, and mind open, you may learn something in the process as well.
3. It establishes your reputation as an authority.
If you want to be seen as a leader in your field, you have to stand up and be vocal about what you have to offer. But instead of telling people you’re an expert, give them a taste in a way that helps raise their level of expertise too.
4. It increases your professional value.
When your expertise helps the entire team, you become a more valuable part of it. Your presence is worth more the organization—and that can translate into tangible rewards and real dollars.
Sharing your wisdom with the people around you is not an activity born from the ego. It’s about being of service. It’s about giving, not gloating.
Here are a few ways to share your professional expertise comfortably and easily.
1. Become a Mentor
There’s no shortage of young professionals looking for guidance. When you see a newbie with potential but in need of support, take that person under your wing. Share the hard earned lessons you’ve collected over the years.
At the same time, keep your eyes, ears, and mind open. After all, the best part about mentorship is that—when it’s a strong partnership—both people learn equally. As a mentor, you’ll gain a new perspective about the work you do. Your mentee’s youthful inexperience can actually provide you with a wealth of powerful insight…if you’re open to it.
2. Write
The written word is always a wonderful tool for reaching others. Consider writing an article for a publication catering to your industry or profession. Or start a blog! Nothing is more empowering than putting your thoughts out there for the world to see.
Plus, as a published author—whether online or in print—you’re automatically afforded a certain level of authority. It seems strange, but writers are presumed to be experts (sadly, even if they have no clue what they’re saying). My point, however, is this: A few bylines can quickly elevate your professional visibility and shape your reputation as a leader in your field.
3. Train Others
Offer to present on a topic of interest at a local industry conference or meeting of your professional association. Host a lunch and learn event at your company. Present what you know with confidence, in a way that engages and enlightens your audience. Remember not to talk “down” to people; as the instructor, part of your role is to tap the wisdom in the room. Open the conversation so others can share their expertise as well. Don’t presume you’re the only one with something to say.
Training others in any setting, big or small, will help boost your public speaking skills (incredibly valuable for any profession) and position you as an authority. Just like writing, standing in front of a room creates automatic credibility.
4. Be a Resource
When you read an exceptionally helpful article, stumble upon a useful new piece of information, or find a more effective way of doing things, don’t keep it to yourself. Each and every day, you likely have something worthwhile to share that could be beneficial to your colleagues. You don’t have to wait for a formal training session or explicit request for help. Your small gesture can positively influence someone’s entire career. It’s definitely worth the few minutes required.
5. Take the Lead
If you have special expertise that could be beneficial to a particular task or project, don’t be afraid to take the reins. Don’t make people beg for your help or insight. Volunteer it. Step up and offer to guide the ship if you know you’d make a good captain. If you have something to contribute, get out front. Just remember that the best leaders encourage everyone on the team to share their expertise too.
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