Today’s one-word prompt: Expert
An expert, more generally, is a person with extensive knowledge or ability based on research, experience, or occupation and in a particular area of study. Experts are called in for advice on their respective subject, but they do not always agree on the particulars of a field of study.
So, that’s the definition.
In my opinion, there are two types of experts – the Expert, who actually is a very schooled and skilled individual in a certain aspect of life, and the “Expert,” who thinks they are very schooled and skilled but is, in actuality…not schooled and skilled.
The Expert is called upon to provide advice and a point of view in regards to a specific area of need. They may not always agree with findings, but they can shed an educated light on what they specialize in.
The “Expert” will give an opinion on something without anyone asking or needing it. Sometimes they are right, but usually not.
The Expert and The “Expert” can both be pompous and full of bravado, and while neither has a justifiable reason for this disposition…you know what, nope. Neither has a reason for unjustified pompousness and bravado.
But, there is also The Expert who may not have the educational background, but acquires his or her knowledge through experience. This is someone who is brought in at a beginner/entry level, mentored in the right way, groomed, and works their way up through hard work and merit. I find this type of Expert to be harder to find these days.
I’ve always felt that I could learn a job unrelated to my current occupation/job experience, but have not been able to find the right opportunity job-wise. It is difficult to move ahead in life when people only want experience. Where do you find this experience, I’ve often wondered. How does one become an Expert through life experience when the opportunity is not afforded to them?
I’ll never claim to be an expert in anything (hence, the lowercase “e”), but I do consider myself well-rounded in certain areas through a combination of work and education. Not all of them are marketable skills, but the very fact that I have the ability to write is a skill many would love to have. Now, if I can parlay that into an opportunity…