Expert, Though Leader, Guru, Icon, Authority, Go-To-Guy/Gal/Person—these are some terms that you should never use in your correspondence, self-description, online profiles, or when asked about yourself.
Chances are that if you use one of them yo describe yourself, you are neither.
Almost everyone I encountered who introduces themselves as an expert or thought leader often lacked self-esteem. Any of these terms acts like a label screaming “I know better than you, so do not contradict me”.
True experts and thought leaders certainly exist. They’ve earned those accolades through the consistent production of value and garnered respect from their clients and peers. The difference? They don’t need to declare it. Others do so on their behalf.
While countless books and consultants might encourage you to position yourself as an authority or thought leader to command higher fees, remember that such recognition is given, not self-ascribed. A title is only as meaningful as the people who grant it you.
