Getting and giving advice over the internet is so incredibly easy. Some people think they have an answer to everything. The problem with giving advice is that you aren't responsible for what happens next. For example, what if your nutrition advice negatively affects the health of someone? What if your training advice gets someone injured or sick? There are a lot of self-proclaimed experts who give bad advice because they don't take into consideration you as a whole person. You can't expect quality advice from someone without giving an expert all the current facts and your past history. More so, just because one expert experienced success in weight loss, diet, health, athletics or career, this doesn't mean that what worked for him/her will work for you. Also, information can be heavily skewed to fit an agenda, such as selling a service or product or boosting popularity. There will always be a research study and success story to support any kind of agenda. With so many experts out there, here are some ways to help you select the right expert for your needs. Remember - don't believe everything you hear. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
1. You believe in his/her philosophy. When you have insight on how an expert approaches situations and how he/she helps others, you will gain trust in this individual as you have similar views and understand his/her methodologies.
2. Your expert has credentials, competence, experience and a good reputation.
3. You feel safe and not judged by your expert and you feel like you are treated like an individual.
4. Your expert has a specialty area or is an expert in a specific field, based on experience and formal education.
5. Your expert is actively involved in learning with continuing education.
6. Your expert has patience for you and does not rush your journey. She/he doesn't have a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all method. Despite having knowledge, education and being extremely popular, experts are not magicians. Most issues or problems require ongoing support, accountability and assistance.
7. Your expert gives you his/her full attention, provides a supportive and positive environment and does not ignore or dismiss your questions or concerns. Your expert values a team approach when working together.
8. Your expert challenges you and wants you to step outside your comfort zone. She/he doesn't tell you exactly what you want to hear or give you false promises.
9. Your expert maintains your confidentiality.
10. Your expert doesn't change his/her approach based on what is "in" or trendy. While it's important for your expert to keep an open-mind to new research, trends and strategies, it's not necessary for your expert to change his/her beliefs every time a new fad becomes heavily popular.
As you search for the best expert(s) to help you with your personal needs, keep in mind that the same expert may not work for everyone. Figure out exactly what you need and are looking for in an expert - keeping in mind that not every problem has a clear, simple or easy answer.