What if you already ARE the expert?

What comes to mind when you think of the word ‘expert’? 

Would you describe yourself as one? 

If you’re not an expert in your field, who is? 

I ask because it blows my mind how many experienced women lawyers DON’T consider themselves experts in their field. They have years of experience working for top firms, doing complex transactions, leading other people…. and yet…

They still believe that there are ‘other people’ who are experts. Not them. 

And it matters, because that belief is standing in the way of their self-confidence, self-promotion and ACTUAL promotion. 

And my question is always, if not you – WHO?! 

Who are these perfect people who know ‘everything’ and never make mistakes?! 

Because, when I explore it with my clients, that’s what they think ‘experts’ are. 

And I some important news…

THESE PEOPLE DON’T EXIST. 

Or at least, if they do, I’ve never met one. 

I looked it up, because even though I’ve left the industry, I like to do my due diligence ☺ … and the definition of an “expert” is

“a person who is very knowledgeable about or skilful in a particular area”. 

NOT, a person who:

• knows everything in their area
• never makes a mistake or misstep  
• never asks questions or relies on external help 
• has stopped learning and building experience. 
• has a particular title. 

Most of you work in dynamic areas where commercial demands and legal parameters are a moving feast. To think you could or should know ‘everything’ is crazy.   

And actually, in your line of work, memorising every available textbook won’t cut it. 

You are SKILLFUL IN YOUR AREA because you use your hard-earned KNOWLEDGE to:

• solve problems
• negotiate solutions
• run large projects
• draft complex documents 
• manage other human beings
• etc. etc. etc. 

Knowing it ALL is not required. 

Being the ‘best’ (whatever that means…) is not required. 

Look at yourself again.

Is it possible that you are ALREADY an expert? 

Just sayin’.