How can you establish credibility when a team member has more expertise?

Establishing credibility through acknowledging a team members expertise can be incredibly beneficial to both parties. The original team member will have a positive experience with a new member who respects their knowledge and background. The new member will have a chance to learn from and be guided by someone who has hands on experience in the occupation they're entering. This will help form a trusting bond between the two and allow for a healthy work place relationship to form over time.

We grow alot more when surrounded by people who are more able than us. Experiencing someone else who has more expertise should be approached with humility yes, but also with a very curious mind. What do they know that I dont know? How can I learn from them and increase my knowledge. Having said that, almost everyone brings something valuable to the table, so see if you can give yourself some reassurance that you must be bringing something to the table that they would learn from you.

Sharing your value in a team with more experienced members isn't about outshining their expertise. It's about embracing your unique strengths. As a busy mom and freelancer, I've found that being a creative problem solver comes naturally. It's not a competition; it's a collaboration. Instead of trying to match their expertise, highlight how your distinct perspective can enhance the team's problem-solving skills. Remember, confidence in your domain isn't about flashy titles; it's about showing how your practical skills and fresh ideas contribute to the team's success. When you share your value, you're not just proving your worth; you're contributing to a balanced and dynamic team, where experience and innovation go hand in hand.

You are a very unique version of yourself, the mix of projects, companies and people you have experienced make the whirlpool of knowledge that lives within you. Its important, learning this and being able to verbalise it to others. We must be predisposed to questioning ourselves and asking ourselves: what my strengths have been in this project, what my strengths have been when navigating through a challenge, etc.

Everyone looks at things differently, getting feedback is your oppurtunity to see how others are looking at your work. We often get desensitised to our own work when we see it repetitively. But a set of fresh eyes usually give a very new perspective. Welcome as many perspectives as possible, of peers of all seniority levels, that feedback is only there to make things better, and if you believe otherwise learn to eloquently debate with the facts you have.

Supporting your more experienced team member doesn't mean you have to match their expertise. Instead, it's about building a collaborative and supportive environment. As a freelancer and parent with a packed schedule, I've learned the value of empathy and understanding. It's not about being intrusive; it's about offering help where you can. Find out what challenges they're facing, and see how you can assist. It might be providing insights from your unique perspective, sharing resources, or simply lending an understanding ear. The key is to show that you care and are willing to be generous with your time and knowledge. When you offer support, you're not just gaining credibility; you're fostering a culture of teamwork and mutual growth.

I have experienced that being authentic and vulnerable in your endeavour helps you genuinely explore the world around you. It helps you build a better understanding of what you are looking for and what you offer to others, ultimately improving the relationships you build.