Last updated on Aug 21, 2024

You're starting a new E-Learning project. How can you quickly establish trust with subject matter experts?

Embarking on a new E-Learning project can be thrilling and challenging, especially when it involves collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs). These experts are crucial to the project as they bring in-depth knowledge and credibility. Establishing trust with SMEs quickly is vital to ensure a smooth workflow and create an effective learning experience. Trust is the foundation of any successful collaboration, and in the context of E-Learning, it can make the difference between a course that resonates with learners and one that falls flat. So, how do you quickly build this trust with SMEs? This article guides you through practical steps to foster a strong, collaborative relationship from the get-go.

1 Build Rapport

Building rapport with subject matter experts is your first step toward establishing trust. Begin by expressing genuine interest in their expertise and acknowledging their accomplishments. Schedule a meeting to discuss the project goals and listen attentively to their insights. This initial interaction is crucial in showing respect for their knowledge and setting the tone for a collaborative partnership. Remember, a positive first impression can pave the way for open communication and mutual respect throughout your E-Learning project.

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Yolanda Olavarria

Product Management - Project Management - EdTech -Digital Learning - AI - Soft Skills - Mentorship
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Taking the time to uncover people's "why" when building rapport is crucial for establishing trust. By aligning an SME's "why" with the objectives of your project, you can create a foundation for a genuine and meaningful connection. People tend to remember the initial feelings you evoke during an encounter. Continuously referencing the "why" throughout your collaboration can help maintain this connection consistently. Additionally, integrating expressions of gratitude and appreciation into your interactions is a vital component of your rapport-building toolkit.

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2 Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is essential when working with subject matter experts. Ensure you articulate the project's objectives, timelines, and how their expertise will contribute to the overall success. Transparency about expectations and processes helps prevent misunderstandings and builds confidence in your ability to manage the project effectively. Regular updates and receptive feedback channels will also show that you value their input and foster a collaborative environment.

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Angie Carter, M.S. IDT

I build impactful corporate learning experiences.
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I like to utilize a consistent timeline visual. This can be a simple table or bulleted list. I update this visual each time we meet a milestone so it shows what is coming next. When I send a reminder email, it is a familiar visual that is quick and easy to see what is due next and when.

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3 Show Flexibility

Flexibility is key when collaborating with subject matter experts. Understand that they have other commitments and may work at a different pace. Be willing to adjust deadlines or project scopes to accommodate their schedules when possible. Demonstrating adaptability not only builds trust but also shows that you respect their time and contributions. This approach can lead to a more engaged and motivated SME, which in turn benefits your E-Learning project.

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4 Provide Support

Offering support to subject matter experts can significantly enhance trust. Equip them with the necessary tools and resources to contribute effectively to your E-Learning project. Whether it's technical assistance, additional research materials, or simply being available to answer questions, your support demonstrates commitment to their success as well as the project's. When SMEs feel supported, they are more likely to invest fully in the collaboration.

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I've learned it's easier to get SMEs to critique an idea, than to ask them for an idea directly. For example, if I need SMEs to provide case studies for an e-learning, it would be easier for me to draft a couple case studies and ask them 'Why shouldn't we use these?' than to wait for them to write those case studies for me. If there's anything wrong with my ideas and there should be, it opens up a targeted and relevant discussion where we're both learning. Everyone's a good critic; for example, you and I probably find it easier to critique a book than to write one. Leverage this when you can.

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5 Acknowledge Expertise

It's important to acknowledge the expertise of your subject matter experts regularly. Recognize their contributions in team meetings and project documentation. By highlighting the value their knowledge brings to the E-Learning project, you not only bolster their confidence but also reinforce the trust between you. Appreciation goes a long way in maintaining a positive and productive working relationship.

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Norma Demuro
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Die meisten E-Learning-Manager sind auf Fachexperten angewiesen, um vielfältige Themen abzubilden. Es ist entscheidend, dass Fachexperten verstehen, welchen Impact ihr Einsatz auf die Organisation hat. Hier einige Tipps, um Vertrauen aufzubauen und eine erfolgreiche Zusammenarbeit zu fördern: - Kontext vermitteln: Erkläre den Projektrahmen und den Nutzen ihres Beitrags. - Korrektes Briefing: Gib klare Anweisungen. - Einfache Zuarbeit: Halte Anforderungen unkompliziert. - Ausreichend Zeit: Plane genügend Zeit für qualitativ hochwertigen Input ein. - Wertschätzung zeigen: Anerkenne ihre Arbeit regelmäßig und öffentlich. - Effizientes Projektmgt.: Gute Organisation stärkt die Zusammenarbeit.

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6 Encourage Collaboration

Encouraging active collaboration is the final step in establishing trust with subject matter experts. Invite them to share ideas, participate in decision-making, and contribute to creative problem-solving. When SMEs feel their opinions are valued and that they have a stake in the project's outcome, trust deepens. Collaborative efforts result in richer content and a more robust E-Learning experience for all involved.

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Angie Carter, M.S. IDT

I build impactful corporate learning experiences.
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When the SME provides a text-heavy source content and I return a text-light design draft, I meet with the SME and show them where almost all of their original text is in the talking points now. We talk through any original content that I made more concise, re-ordered or omitted and why. I feel this respects the original effort the SME put into the project and reassures them that - just because the slide isn't jammed with text it doesn't mean we are ignoring the SME input.

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You're starting a new E-Learning project. How can you quickly establish trust with subject matter experts?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Build Rapport

2 Communicate Clearly

3 Show Flexibility

4 Provide Support

5 Acknowledge Expertise

6 Encourage Collaboration

E-Learning

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You're starting a new E-Learning project. How can you quickly establish trust with subject matter experts?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Build Rapport

2 Communicate Clearly

3 Show Flexibility

4 Provide Support

5 Acknowledge Expertise

6 Encourage Collaboration

E-Learning

Rate this article

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