How to Be an Expert In 24 Hours

Or at least know enough to seem like one.

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Have you ever been in a situation where everyone is vehemently discussing a supposedly “hot” topic, while you just awkwardly smile and nod along because you have no idea what is going on?

Joey Tribbiani definitely has.

Joey pretending to know what’s up, but not really.

Hoping to keep up with the rest, Joey went on to do what anyone would in pursuit of knowledge — buying an encyclopedia to learn more about the world. That didn’t turn out too well for him, but for the rest of us in these situations — the struggle to have an in-depth discussion, let alone hold an opinion, is real.

Smiling and nodding along may get you through a casual conversation, but not being in the know have greater implications in a business setting. Think back to that networking session where you just stood in a corner because you didn’t have anything “valuable” to say. There’s no expectation to know everything, yet not participating may just cost you the rapport and opportunities to showcase your expertise.

Having said that, no one can know everything, and thank goodness all you need is to know enough about what’s important for your audience.