Be a Leader in our Industry . . . Become a Subject Matter Expert!

By Susie Hayman, NAPO President

Since I began my term as NAPO President, you have probably heard me mention the value of NAPO and the value of us as members of NAPO. A significant piece of that is our valuable message that we are the leader in our industry, and we have the opportunity to be the subject matter experts in so many ways.

Have you ever thought about how you might be a NAPO subject matter expert and take your expertise to the next level? Maybe you’ve already put yourself out there; maybe you’ve thought about taking that first step.

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to be a subject matter expert on a local radio show, “Girlfriend, We Gotta Talk!” As an expert guest on 6 shows, I was interviewed by two “girlfriends.” I had the freedom to choose several topics related to office and business productivity; I shared tips for everything from tackling email, to managing interruptions, to documenting policies and procedures. The radio show was done live in the studio, so the experience really gave me confidence in my knowledge of the subject matter and in my ability to articulate that expertise to an audience of women. And, it was fun!

Are you ready to be a subject matter expert? The possibilities are numerous and as varied as we are:

• Apply to be an instructor and teach a NAPO University class
• Submit a session for the NAPO Conference
• Submit a blog
• Submit to be a Podcast guest
• Submit for a Free Member Webinar
• Present at a Chapter Meeting
• Present on a SIG call
• Present on a Volunteer Leader Call

As NAPO continues to grow and we look to the future, there will be more and more ways for you to be a subject matter expert. By doing so, you create an opportunity to be a leader in our industry and elevate both your business and our profession to the next level.

In the meantime, when you see that next request for expertise, I encourage you to use your skills, your passion, and your value to take that step. If you see yourself as a subject matter expert, go for it!

Warm regards,

Susie Hayman