Creative ways to share expertise without looking arrogant

By Brian Maynor

 

The conundrum of being an expert:  No one likes a know-it-all, and yet promotions and career advancement are often dependent upon others knowing we have an expertise.

It seems crazy, but that is the fine line experts have to walk.  Sometimes it’s easy to display expertise for example: at court hearings, a panel discussion or other setting that set the stage for it, but sharing an expertise every day is a bit harder.

Disdain for a know-it-all doesn’t come from their knowledge per se, but rather from their delivery.  Instead of bragging about what we know, or demonstrating it in every conversation, we should share our knowledge in a way that is helpful and beneficial to everyone.

Here are some creative ways to share our expertise that will have people thanking us instead of disparaging us:

1.   Write an article.  Most companies have a newsletter, intranet, or other medium they use to share information with employees, so why submit an article for publication.  These platforms are designed to showcase talent and knowledge, so it is the perfect vehicle to share ours.

2.    Host a lunch-and-learn.  This is a great way to share information and research that impact our industry with people who are interested in learning about it, and will definitely be noticed by the higher-ups, even if only a few people attend.

3.    Hold a virtual Q&A session.  If it’s hard to get physical bodies together, utilize technology and invite colleagues, peers and other industry leaders to join you for a virtual Q&A session.  This is especially useful for collecting data or testing theories and ideas.

Gaining expertise is not an easy undertaking, and it’s a highly valued commodity when showcased the right way, but if we’re not careful it can be undermined and come across as arrogance.  The key to being appreciated for expertise is to make it helpful to others, not just a demonstration of intelligence.

 

 

I’m always excited to hear from you, so please email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected].

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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