One of the reasons I love this is country is that anyone can become an expert. It doesn’t matter your current position or occupation because if you are willing to put in the time you can become an authority on virtually any subject
Don’t believe me? Think about these examples:
Rush Limbaugh and Shawn Hannity have never run for political office, but they are known authorities in the Republican Party.
Bob Costas has never thrown a game-winning touchdown or won a gold medal in the Olympics, but he is the go to sports commentator. Colin Cowherd has never hit a three pointer in an NBA game, but he is very popular among ESPN fans.
Movie critics typically have never produced a movie, but we seek out their opinions.
There are thousands of PhD professors teaching students how to run business, but they have never run one themselves.
So what does it take to be an authority on a subject? I broke it down to four main areas that will help you become a well-respected expert in the subject of your choice.
Passion
The most important ingredient to becoming an expert in a subject is making sure you are passionate about the topic. There are millions of people who listen to Hannity and Limbaugh because they are passionate about the subject they discuss. They believe in what they say and that can easily be observed in their communication.
Study the Subject
I was once told that if you read three books on a subject then you could consider yourself an expert on the topic. This is not a scientific study, so I would suggest reading at least eight books on a subject you are passionate about and take copious notes.
Also, follow industry leaders…read their blogs…subscribe to their newsletters and I believe within 6-12 months you will be just as knowledgeable about the topic as anyone.
Express Yourself
Once you start feeling confident about the topic start creating content. Utilize Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Let people closest to you realize that you love this topic and you know what you are talking about.
Just Do It Already
Finally…Just do it! Create a web site or blog and start creating content. Write for a local paper…they love free work! Write an e-newsletter and send it out to friends and family!
If you follow these steps you may be the next Rush Limbaugh or Bob Costas!
If you could choose what topic to be an expert it, what would it be?
I found it entertaining that you mentioned The Herd. The Outliers book has some thoughts regarding 10,000 hours. I’ve read that if you read 5 books on any 1 subject you’re already ahead of the majority of others.
You are a Herd listener too…that guy is very entertaining. Outliers is a great book…10,000 hours seems like a lot of time, but there is a reason Drs have to go to Medical School + a Residency before they are Drs…it is almost exactly 10,000 of school. I hope I am almost at that 10,000 hour mark!