Featured article by Sally Writes, Independent Technology Author
Technology is one of the fastest growing industries globally, but there remains a distinct shortage of experts. In fields such as cybersecurity, analysts estimate that businesses will be faced with losses scaling to the hundreds of millions due to the technological skills gap, according to CNBC. More than ever, the industry is looking for guidance; older, calm heads that have a developed acumen both in the skills side of the business as well as relevant experience. Gaining this is one half of the question; the other is demonstrating it, and establishing yourself as an expert.
The power of research
Research is arguably the quickest route to asserting yourself as a technology leader and expert, and there’s a good reason for this. Firstly, savvy web searchers will look to researchers for a true account of industry events, providing expert perspective. Journals, PDFs from authoritative domains and credible or scholarly news outlets are all examples of where authoritative voices are found. Secondly, researchers are becoming scarcer in the United States. As outlined by MIT, governmental policies over the past 50 years or so have created a relative dearth in research activity. Researchers are fewer in number, and that means the research that is conducted is that much more impactful. Making yourself unique in the current IT industry can be achieved through these means, and give you an expert’s credentials.
Obtaining credentials
What your research leads to can be helped to gain further accreditation. Learning does not stop at university level, whether under or post-graduate study, and this can be a great way to continue your development and have a clear indicator as to your talents. Take note of the full range of certifications outlined by the National Center for Education Statistics; as technology continues to evolve and develop, so does the number and variety of qualifications available to technology professionals. Securing accreditation to make a clear demonstration of your skills and expertise will help to position you as an expert.
Sharing your knowledge
Having skill is all well and good, but sharing them is key. Technology is a very open ended sector in which development is best undertaken collaboratively; while big market players like Microsoft and Apple have in the past kept technology in-house, this practice is not the same for most of the market. Sharing knowledge will help you to positively influence people, benefit other businesses, and ultimately grow your reputation within your field. Furthermore, it will arguably inspire further innovation and research opportunities. This can only be a good thing, as it will create more material to learn, more technologies to adapt, and, simply, more grounds through which to develop your career and acumen.
In many ways, establishing yourself as an authority voice in technology or the broader IT sector is a case of emphasizing what you’re already doing. Look to innovate, rather than stand still, and use your new-gained skills to secure new qualifications and to share your knowledge wider. Being a hub of expertise will help you to further your career and create a lasting legacy as an expert.
