When it comes to building a personal brand, too many people hold back. They think, “I’ll start sharing once I’m more of an expert.” But here’s the thing: waiting for some magical level of expertise means you might never start.
The truth is, you don’t need to be recognized as an expert to grow your brand. What matters most is sharing your expertise, that specific, practical knowledge you already have. That’s what creates value for others.
Expertise Builds Connection Faster Than Titles
Expert status is about credentials, years in an industry, broad advanced knowledge, or recognition from others. Expertise, on the other hand, lives in the details of your lived experience.
My nine-year-old son is a perfect example. He’s not an expert in football. He doesn’t know all the rules of the game inside and out yet. But he has a system for sorting and organizing his football cards that’s so efficient, he could teach collectors of any age how to do it better.
That’s expertise: a specific solution to a real problem. If he shared it online, people would benefit. And in the process, his visibility would grow, not because of a title, but because of the value he demonstrated. (Note: He’s not allowed on social media so the world will have to wait a bit for this.)
Why Expertise Matters for Your Brand
Your personal brand isn’t built by how much you say you know. It’s built by how much you show you know.
- Expertise demonstrates credibility. When you share practical, actionable insights, people see your competence in action.
- Expertise creates trust. Others experience your generosity and problem-solving ability when they benefit from it, which positions you as trustworthy.
- Expertise increases visibility. Brands that share their knowledge consistently rise above the noise because they’re offering solutions, not just self-promotion.
This is why thought leaders, creators, and service-first brands stand out. They don’t wait for someone else to validate their “expert” status. They share their expertise and let their impact speak for itself.
Stop Waiting, Start Sharing
If you’re holding back because you don’t feel “expert enough,” ask yourself: What do I know right now that could make someone else’s life easier?
Maybe it’s a shortcut in your industry, a system you’ve mastered, or a unique perspective from your own journey. Share that. That’s where your personal brand (and your business brand) grows roots.
The people who win at personal branding aren’t the ones with the fanciest titles. They’re the ones who take the expertise they already have and put it in front of the people who need their value. Does that sound like it could be you?
