10 Ideas to Build Your Profile as an Expert to Attract Clients

People love to be reassured that those they go to for help are capable of solving their problem. But how do you get recognised as the 'go to' person for what you offer? Here are 10 ideas that can help develop your profile as an expert. We will explore them in more detail over the coming weeks.....

1. Forget trying to be everything to everyone

At first it may seem logical to offer something to 'everyone', but what this does is water down your message so that you 'blend in' to the background, the opposite of what you need to do. It is far better to specialise if you want to be seen as an expert and attract a steady stream of new clients.

2. Develop expertise in a specialised area, do the research, learn the skills

Being recognised as a expert is more than a 'label', it must also be true! Decide what you love doing, and how you can help people most and focus on that. This may mean finding a mentor or doing some extra learning to develop a deeper understanding of your field of expertise.

3. Draw on your existing skills and talents

Every experience we have had brings us to the point that we are today, so needs to be honored and valued. When I embarked on a health career I thought I had kissed my corporate life goodbye forever! It was only when I blended my experience of the two that I was able to really make an impact. Using your expertise to provide a great solution to a group of people that you know and understand well can really magnify your point of difference and leverage your expert status.

4. Write a book

If you want to propel your business to the next level, writing a book is a great way to leverage your knowledge and build your profile.

5. Use articles

I can't think of a better low cost way to quickly position yourself as an expert. Writing content rich articles about your area of expertise and submitting them to newspapers, trade publications and online, is a powerful way to build credibility.

6. Speaking

A super powerful way to be recognised as an expert in your chosen field. Speaking directly to your niche will quickly attract new clients when you consistently add value with the message you share. Add an invitation or irresistable offer and you are well on the way to taking your business to the next level.

7. Mentor others

Think about your own favorite mentors. Most likely they generously shared what they knew to help others 'learning the ropes'. Offering your time and knowledge to others is a powerful calling card.

8. Run events

Creating an event that meets the needs of your target market can help to enhance your profile as a specialist. You can joint venture with other professionals who offer great services to increase exposure to your ideal prospect.

9. Use a variety of methods to share a consistent message

The worlds most identifiable 'brands' have a consistent message across the various mediums they use. Whether your message comes face to face, in print, via electronic media or newsletter....your message needs to be specific, solve a problem and be easily identified.

10. Be mindful of the company you keep

I've heard it said that we are an average of the 5 people we associate with most. Surround yourself with likeminded people who are aiming for excellence in their field of endeavour.

This list are just some suggestions that can help to build your profile as an expert. In most instances they are relatively low cost. Begin by choosing the ones that work for you (this may require 'stepping out' a little...but that's okay...you can do it!). Establishing yourself as an expert may mean developing some new skills, or doing some things differently, so allow time to work on your business as well as in it. Stay tuned as we explore some of these ideas in more detail over the next few weeks.

All the best with your (ad)ventures....
Krishna