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According to Tim Ferriss, it’s possible to become an expert in a month. In his book, he offers the following advice on how to acquire ‘credibility indicators’ in the least time, bearing in mind that the point is not to fabricate but to present the truth in the best light. He advises joining relevant trade associations, reading the top selling business books, giving free seminars, possibly writing articles and using ProfNet, a service used by journalists.

Read the top selling books

Ferriss says that in today’s PR-oriented world, the word ‘expert’ is overused. But reading the experts is a good way to get up to speed on a particular topic. He advises to check the New York Times bestseller list and to summarise each relevant book you read into a single page.

Get trade associations behind your name

Once again, the point is not to be somebody that you’re not but if you can improve your credibility by joining associated trade groups, why not? You can join official organisations in a few minutes online with your credit card.

Give free seminars and record one of them

By offering seminars at well known and credible locations like universities and corporations in your area, you can add to your credibility. Explain to the relevant institution that you are a member of whatever professional associations you have joined and that you are not going to be selling products or services.

Ferriss says to explain that you’re offering the seminar for free to get speaking experience and then to record the seminar from two different angles. This recording can later be used to make a DVD.

Possibly write for trade magazines

Offer to write some articles for relevant trade magazines, citing what you have achieved to date. Then join ProfNet to access experts to quote on your articles. Should you be required to do so, you can do online research to respond to journalist queries.

If your offer is declined, look at the possibility of interviewing somebody who has credibility. You will get some credibility out of being listed as a contributor to that particular trade magazine.

Tags: career, work ethic