How to fight expert syndrome and dare to share your expertise

In Content Factory episode 8, Jordan Chenevier-Truchet discusses the expert syndrome.

Expert syndrome is a powerful barrier when you want to start creating content. However, it is possible to overcome it. In this article, discover the causes of expert syndrome and our 5 tips to eliminate it from your mindset.

What is expert syndrome?

The expert syndrome, it's when you think that everyone already knows what you know. Result: we have the impression of having “nothing to say”, that our knowledge is too basic to deserve to be shared.

However, it is only a false impression. As Jordan explains:

“The problem for a lot of people is that they think they have nothing to say. And in fact, there are always things to talk about. And you know, the feeling of having nothing to say can be linked to several things. For me, the most common thing is expert syndrome. That is to say, you consider that what you know everyone knows and in fact it is false.”

Expert syndrome makes you question the value of your expertise and your ability to contribute something to others. However, this doubt is often unfounded.

Why is expert syndrome blocking us?

This syndrome can have several origins:

• The fear of not being legitimate : we have the impression of not knowing enough to position ourselves as an expert.
• The perfectionist : we want to master everything before sharing anything.
• The lack of self-confidence : we do not believe that our point of view can be of interest to others.
• The habit of keeping everything to yourself : some people have trouble opening up and sharing their experience.

The consequences on content creation

The expert syndrome has very concrete effects on the ability to produce useful content:

• 🛑 Paralysis and blockage : the fear of having nothing to say blocks inspiration.
• 🛑 Too basic content : when you dare to create content, you tend to stay on the surface.
• 🛑Lack of a single point of view : the content lacks depth and subjectivity.

The result: we produce little, and when we produce it is bland and has no added value.

5 tips for overcoming expert syndrome

Fortunately, it is possible to overcome this syndrome through concrete actions:

1. Accept that you don't know everything

Nobody can know a subject like the back of their hand, especially if it's a broad one. Accept that you will never be the world's greatest expert in your field. But you still have the right to share your knowledge.

2. Focus on your added value

Instead of wanting to master everything, focus on your unique expertise. What can you really add value to? That is what we must bet on.

3. Adopt the beginner's mindset

Even basic knowledge can help someone just starting out. Imagine that you are explaining to a beginner to gain confidence in your worth.

4. Talk to your community first

Instead of the general public, start by creating content for your own community. Your knowledge will be all the more valuable for them.

5. Ask for feedback on your content

By asking for reviews, you quickly realize if your content really makes a difference. Enough to motivate you to continue sharing your expertise!

In summary

The expert syndrome is a powerful but surmountable obstacle thanks to work on your mindset. By applying our advice, you will gain the confidence to dare to create valuable content that helps your audience. It is a must on the path of a successful creator!

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