Who are you and what do you do?

If you are reading on a smartphone, use landscape / hold phone sideways. 

We have now hosted 100 video podcasts. Which means that I have asked "Who are you and what do you do?" 100 times.  And, the more famous the person, the more interesting the answer to that question.

Some of the guests that we interview have (literally) millions of followers on LinkedIn. Let me tell you something: if you have millions of followers - ON LINKEDIN - you've got something going on. 

I have interviewed actors, authors, entrepreneurs, comedians. My favorite interview is with authors, especially folks from the world of business. When someone writes a book for the business world, it is very much like they are giving back a piece of themselves to the world. 

A subject matter expert (SME) is someone who possesses a high level of knowledge, expertise, and experience in a particular field or domain. Here are some factors that contribute to being recognized as a subject matter expert:

1. Deep knowledge and expertise: An SME has extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of their subject area. They have accumulated expertise through education, training, practical experience, and continuous learning. They possess a comprehensive understanding of the concepts, theories, principles, and best practices within their field.

2. Experience and practical application: SMEs have hands-on experience applying their knowledge in real-world situations. They have worked in their field for a significant period, allowing them to gain insights, solve complex problems, and navigate challenges. Their practical experience adds credibility to their expertise and enables them to provide practical advice and solutions.

3. Continuous learning and staying current: Subject matter experts continuously invest in learning and staying up to date with the latest developments in their field. They actively pursue professional development opportunities, attend conferences, read relevant literature, and engage in discussions with peers. They are aware of emerging trends, advancements, and changing industry standards, ensuring their knowledge remains current.

4. Recognized authority and reputation: SMEs are recognized as authorities in their field by their peers, colleagues, and the wider community. They have built a reputation for their expertise through their contributions, publications, presentations, and speaking engagements. Their opinions and insights carry weight and are sought after by others in their industry.

5. Problem-solving and critical thinking: SMEs possess strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills. They can analyze complex issues, identify patterns, and propose effective solutions. Their expertise allows them to see connections and opportunities that others may miss, making them valuable resources for problem-solving and decision-making.

6. Effective communication skills: Being an SME involves effectively conveying complex information to different audiences. SMEs can distill and articulate their knowledge in a clear and understandable manner. They can adapt their communication style to meet the needs of diverse audiences, including experts, novices, or stakeholders.

7. Contribution to the field: SMEs actively contribute to their field through research, publications, thought leadership, and mentorship. They share their knowledge and insights through books, articles, blog posts, white-papers, or industry reports. They may also serve as mentors, trainers, or consultants, helping others develop their expertise.

It's important to note that becoming a subject matter expert is a journey that requires continuous learning, practical experience, and ongoing engagement with the field. It takes time and effort to develop the depth of knowledge and expertise necessary to be recognized as an SME.

I love books on Audible. Especially when the book is read by the author. For me, it is like attending a "Master Class" and it feels like the author, the subject matter expert, is talking - to me. Talking directly TO ME. 

I love going to the park with my dog, loading up an Audible book, and attending my own private Master Class with an SME. One day, maybe I will be interviewed for my own book, and they will ask me: "Who are you and what do you do?"

And I'll get to say "My name is TommyCapone.com and I ask people who they are and what they do." 

My Classroom with Prof. Konta