An interesting conversation came up the other day when we were referred to as experts in our field, I beg to differ, I don’t think we are experts, but I do consider that we are specialists.

The definitions of expert are–

A person with a high degree of skill in or knowledge of a certain subject (adjective)

one with the special skill or knowledge representing mastery of a particular subject (Noun)

The definition of specialist is –

One who is devoted to a particular occupation or branch of study or research

I don’t think many can hold out to be masters of their subject indeed it is interesting that some “experts” appear to always be classed as experts even though they are no longer active in their field or continuing to learn at the same pace as they did before.

I know that the market place for our business is always changing and we have to use our skills to change with it, and that doesn’t just apply to our sector, I wonder how many experts in the field of VCR technology exist, or those that know everything there is to know about DVDs and CD’s – Technology is changing so fast that they need to change too.

I therefore accept that to be classed as a specialist in our field is not a bad thing, admitting that we do not know it all, and are continually ready to learn, but what we do offer is that quality of devotion to what we do. 

I know from personal experience that I probably give too much of my time and knowledge free to those I hope will benefit from it, and have been accused of giving people way more of our valuable information than they need without charging them for it.  But it works for us because at least clients know we have a passion for what we do.

Overall I’m constantly reminded of the phrase:

What is an expert?  – An “ex” is a has been, and a “spurt” is a drip under pressure

Specialism for me then!