By Steve Beseke, beseke1@earthlink.net
Warren Buffett and Bill Gates Have Nothing Over You.
In American society, branding yourself an expert in anything can lead to ridicule and suspicion. “Who is he/she anyway…I know more than this expert or that…” You are probably right. How do experts get branded as experts? Well, it starts by truly defining your personal brand and walking the walk.
Whether it is because of your position, your accomplishments or your sheer passion for a particular issue or subject, all of us are experts in some things. Warren Buffett is an expert in finance and investment because he has been so successful. Bill Gates is an expert computer software. I consider of friend of mine an expert in marketing because he has a true passion for marketing any type of widget. Some folks consider me an expert in resilience because of my successful life experience overcoming challenges, including a physical disability – Cerebral Palsy. (Personally, I just think I am a guy with a message.)
The point is that all of us exhibit characteristics in our chosen field or passion in life. Letting people see this passion or expertise is also part of establishing a personal brand.
You might remember seeing Inspector Clouseau in the Pink Panther movies saying to his assistant, “I’m the expert, stupid…” That’s taking personal branding to a level you probably don’t want to go. But people like to know they can count on you with expertise, candor and reliability. Being a parent, for example, I have become a “reluctant” expert in patience with my teenage daughter. Folks have commented how calm I am with teenager issues that drive them nuts. While I by no mean perfect, this perception is a direct result of how I’ve tried to craft my personal brand. People now ask me for parenting advice…although there are some days I’d like to ask them.
I’ve heard an expert can be defined as someone who has done something – anything – three times or more successfully. Needles to say, all of us are experts in many things.
As part of your personal brand, here are two main “expert” characteristics that you might already have:
Are you an expert in a particular subject? Some folks like me are reluctant to claim the title of “expert.” If you are truly knowledgeable on your topic, and can convey this to others verbally or in writing, you are well on your way to becoming an expert. While you may not get quoted or appear on one of the daily TV talk shows, your personal brand will definitely be enhanced in the eyes of others.
Are you passionate about your topic(s)? As I mentioned earlier, I have a passion for being the best parent I can be. I also have a true passion for being the best colleague at work. Both require patience, listening, humility, humor, confidence and being prepared. While I don’t always achieve these, the actions people see from me show my personal commitment. This is the brand I want them to remember about me. How about you?
In the next week, please take a few minutes to answer the questions above for yourself. While the goal is not to prove you are an expert, it will more clearly define for you (and others) your key competencies that can ultimately propel your career. Most importantly, however, it will help establish your personal confidence and resilience to live your definition of the “good life.”
I wish you luck and look forward to talking with you next week!
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