How to go from “Experienced” to “Expert”: A guide for IT consultants
You know how people always talk about “experts” like they’re the be-all and end-all?
Well, turns out it’s not always so cut and dry. Some people think that what makes someone an expert can be pretty subjective, and even vary from field to field or person to person.
And, let’s be real, sometimes people just slap that title on themselves because of their fancy degrees or qualifications, even if they’re not actually that skilled or knowledgeable.
Plus, there are those so-called experts out there who have pretty obvious biases or just refuse to learn new things, which kind of shows that being an expert doesn’t necessarily mean you’re always right.
So, what makes an “expert” an expert?
Defining the term “expert”
The term “expert” is often seen as a sign of high skill and deep understanding in a specific area. It’s a nod to someone’s ability to master a field.
Let’s look at some of the common characteristics experts are known to have, and how you can develop these traits to become an expert in your field:
1. Deep knowledge
An expert is expected to have a deep understanding of their field, going beyond basic knowledge. Experts dig into the small details of their field, always learning and staying updated with the latest changes.
Take an expert in cybersecurity for example. They not only understand the common threats but also stay updated on emerging threats and are aware of the latest defense mechanisms.
2. Real-world application
Knowing your stuff is one thing, but being able to use that knowledge in the real world is what sets an expert apart. Experts have a track record of solving actual problems, not just talking about them.
If there’s a difficult issue at hand, experts are usually the go-to people because they’ve proven they can find solutions that work.
This ability to apply knowledge in a practical way is a key indicator of expertise, and it’s why experts are highly valued in any field.
3. Recognition by others
Being called an expert often comes from recognition by other people in the field for their great skills and contributions. This recognition from peers is crucial as it’s a nod to an expert’s skill and experience.
Take a software developer, for example. If they create a groundbreaking app or contribute significantly to open-source projects, they start to get noticed. Their work stands out, and people in their field start talking about it. This kind of recognition is vital because it not only boosts your reputation but also opens doors to new opportunities.
So, it’s not enough to be good at what you do; others need to see and acknowledge that you’re good at it.
Bill Gates is not just an expert in computer technology. He’s also knowledgeable in global health, education, and climate change through his work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
His work in these areas has been backed by extensive research and collaboration with experts, making him well-versed in issues beyond technology.
4. Continuous learning
Staying ahead of the game requires ongoing learning. Experts know this and commit to it.
Whether it’s attending workshops, reading the latest research, or enrolling in courses, they’re always sharpening their skills.
It shows they’re not just interested in being good at their job today, but also in the future. This proactive approach to learning makes them more adaptable and better equipped to handle new challenges.
5. Ethical behavior
Being an expert is about more than just being good at your job; it’s about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Trust is hard to earn and easy to lose. When you act ethically, you protect that trust and set a standard for your whole industry.
Take an expert consultant, for instance. They give honest, unbiased advice to their clients. Even if they could make more money by suggesting something else, they stick to what’s best for the client.
This integrity does more than just build trust; it elevates their professional reputation and sets them apart from those who might cut corners.
The financial upside of becoming an expert IT consultant
One of the reasons why it matters whether experts are true experts is the remuneration they command.
While it’s challenging to find a direct statistic comparing the earnings of experienced IT consultants to experts, we found some salary data can provide some insight.
On Glassdoor, the average salary for an experienced IT consultant is reported to be $97,592 per year in the US. On the other hand, salary data from Salary.com indicates that the average salary for a senior IT consultant, which could be considered a level closer to expertise, is significantly higher at $131,317 per year as of September 25, 2023.
Although the term “expert consultant” isn’t defined clearly, a snippet from Glassdoor mentioned an Expert Consultant’s estimated total pay to be around $176,901 per year, with a base salary averaging at $120,494 per year.
It wouldn’t be fair to pay someone a high consulting fee if they do not have true expertise. It also undermines the value of those who have worked hard to acquire their skills and credentials.
How to go from “experienced” to “expert”
You’re an experienced IT consultant and you’re good at what you do.
But how do you make the leap from experienced to expert?
As described in the previous section of this article, it involves a mix of specialized knowledge, real-world application, and the right professional attitude.
Here are some steps to help guide your journey to becoming an expert IT consultant:
- Gain specialized certifications: Start by identifying which areas of IT you want to specialize in. This could be anything from cybersecurity to cloud computing. Then, invest in the relevant certifications that can vouch for your expertise. Certifications from recognized organizations can give you that extra edge.
- Build a portfolio of successful projects: You need a strong track record that demonstrates your ability to solve complex problems. Work on projects that challenge you and allow you to apply your specialized skills. Showcase these projects in your portfolio to prove that you can walk the talk.
- Network with industry leaders: Connections matter. Engage with other experts and industry leaders through networking events, online forums, and social media. Focus on building meaningful relationships. This could lead to collaborations or even referrals down the line.
- Share your knowledge: Experts share what they know. Start a blog, contribute to forums, or even write a book. The more you share your knowledge, the more you establish yourself as a thought leader in the field.
- Stay updated: Technology changes rapidly. Make a habit of staying updated on the latest trends, tools, and technologies. Attend workshops, webinars, and conferences. Read research papers and industry reports. The more up-to-date you are, the more relevant your expertise remains.
- Seek peer recognition: Awards, recognitions, or even shoutouts on professional platforms like LinkedIn can go a long way. They validate your expertise and help build your reputation. Don’t shy away from entering competitions or nominating yourself for awards in your field.
- Adhere to ethical standards: Maintain a high standard of ethics in all your professional dealings. Transparency, honesty, and a focus on the client’s best interests should be your guiding principles. This not only enhances your reputation but also earns you the trust of your clients and peers.
- Keep learning: The path to expertise never ends. Always keep an eye out for opportunities to expand your skill set. Whether it’s a new programming language or an emerging IT framework, continuous learning keeps you ahead of the curve.
To wrap it up
Following these steps won’t turn you into an expert overnight, but they will set you on the right path. The key is to be consistent and committed to your own professional development. The road to becoming an expert is long, but it’s a journey worth taking for the credibility, opportunities, and financial rewards that come with it.
