My clients often ask me how they can build trust and come across as an expert in their field.
My short answer: Look and sound the part.
Don’t worry, that’s not the end of the article. I’ll get to my list of ways in a minute.
But if others perceive you to be an expert, then you have become “The Expert”. But… how do you do it?
Take my situation for example.
My clients come to me for advice because I’ve established myself as an authority in my field. But I wasn’t always a thought leader. I had to work my way to this humble position.
You can get there too. All it takes is a little effort.
If you’re reading this, you probably already know the reasons why you want people to see you as an expert. But you want to know how. Right?
I’m a personal branding coach for women, so I want to point out that it’s important to first get your “purpose” in order — and then establish yourself as an expert in your niche.
Once you are one hundred percent clear on your message and you’ve built your brand foundation, you should then go on to gain trust and establish your credibility.
4 Ways to Establish Credibility in Your Field:
1. Write a book
This is high up there on my list of ways. Whenever someone sees “author” next to your name, they immediately think of you as someone they should be listening to. I mean, if you wrote a book on the subject, you must know what you’re talking about.
You appear as someone who is knowledgeable and educated. Not only that, but not everyone feels like they could ever write a book. So if they see this about you, they are immediately impressed.
Writing a book can lead to amazing opportunities. For example, once you publish a book, others will take notice and you could get asked to be a guest at a major event. Now, wouldn’t that be something?
After I published my book Monetise Your Message, I received fantastic offers! Public speaking, guest appearances, and I was even invited to interview at the Personal Branding Festival. That felt especially great.
It was such an honour to give insight into my personal branding knowledge at all of these events.
And having these things on my resume quickly led me to gain trust in my field — which brings me to my next topic.
2. Take part in an interview
There are two ways you can take part in interviews. You can get invited, or you can reach out yourself and make the first pitch. In my case, I mentioned getting invited. But you can certainly reach out yourself to someone you would love to share your message with.
The key is to make things happen for yourself in your business.
And interviews are a great way to share your expertise.
I believe it’s our duty to share our message with people. If you have something to say that others can benefit from, why hold it back? Others will be grateful, and you will feel thankful to be able to help.
One thing I love about interviews is, it’s a good way to share things you wouldn’t think to share yourself. Sometimes you don’t even realise what you know until you’re asked in an interview. And when you answer with grace, it might surprise you.
But best of all, you will come off confident and intelligent.
3. Guest Posting
This is another great way to build an audience and establish credibility. The idea is to get published in a high-authority blog or website. You will be able to say, ‘I got featured in “this blog”’. And even plaster it on your website!
Make sure what you write offers value to the readers so they really take in what you say. If you’re unsure what to write about, think about where there are gaps in the content when it comes to your niche. And fill those gaps.
You can also take an idea that’s already out there and give your own perspective on the topic. You have your own unique voice and thoughts, and people want to hear that.
If you feel like you’re just not the “writing type”, you can always hire a ghostwriter. Ghostwriters will write in honour of you, and your name will still be on the article as the author. (You can do this for books as well) So – you have no excuse.
4. Public Speaking
I know public speaking can sound scary at first. It was for me too. This is especially true for women because we often feel judged and feel we need to be more submissive: I blame society.
But if you’re a business owner who offers a service, you’re already doing it in some ways. Or you will be if you’re not yet.
You talk with clients on a regular basis – and with confidence. It takes skill to speak with such confidence.
I know what you’re thinking. Speaking in front of a live group is far different than speaking with a client. But it doesn’t have to be. The mind is a powerful thing – and if you imagine that you’re just sitting in front of another client – it will all feel much easier.
Public speaking can get you in front of important people and help build your reputation.
With the way things are right now, most events are online which makes them easier to share and get your ideal clients’ eyes on you. It’s also a great way to create an impact – and I know that’s part of your overall goal.
The Takeaway
These are some of the things I personally did to become a thought leader in my niche. They might all seem intimidating to you at first. But you’d be surprised how easy it is to talk about something you’re super passionate about.
When you get your mindset straight and realise that all you’re doing is talking about your passion, all of the scary parts will ease up.
Rise above the noise in your head and get rid of that voice that tells you “you can’t”.
Sometimes it can be hard to see the value you bring. But you do offer value, and you offer something unique to your brand. Bring it and share it.
If you need some inspiration, you can check out my book, Monetise Your Message. Inside, there are 21 real stories from 21 women who share your same struggles.
It’s also packed with great tips and advice that you can use in your own business!
It’s time to go share your own message. : ) Good luck