> How do people become experts? Marketing. Most "experts" are also very good at marketing themselves as such. They may not know much more than their peers in t

> How do people become experts? Marketing. Most "experts" are also very good at marketing themselves as such. They may not know much more than their peers in that area - but they are the go-to because they are visible: either on social media, through their writings, etc... I recognize this is a somewhat alternative view point from many of the responses provided here. I am certainly not downplaying the time and dedication required to a particular subject matter as a pre-requisite to becoming an expert. An additional viewpoint that positioning yourself as an expert in the public eye may also improve your communication and teaching skills when conveying ideas in that subject matter, thus further reinforcing your expertise.