What comes to mind when you hear the word “Expert”?

What comes to mind when you hear the word “unknown?”

Now, if you’re in business for yourself (or plan to be) which word sounds like the better option?

Today’s guest discusses a fundamental truth in business. You’re either perceived as an expert or you’re not. And if you’re not being seen as an expert, what is it really costing you?

Catriona Pollard is with me on the show this week and she is passionate about helping people find their authority and communicate it clearly and with purpose.

Catriona Pollard is the founder and director of CP Communications – one of Australia’s most respected and innovative PR and social media agencies. She is also the author of ‘From Unknown To Expert’, Catriona’s new book that is a step-by-step process for growing your profile, expanding your influence and increasing your income by becoming a recognized expert.

After years of staying behind the scenes, Catriona finally reached a point of complete frustration on November 9th of 2010.

She was making a presentation to a room full of people. She was so nervous and remembers looking at the light shining from the spotlight. There was absolute silence as the audience waited. She looked out to the crowd, took a breath and began to speak.

And do you know what happened?

She realized that she deserved to be in the spotlight. For the first time, she wanted people to hear her speak.

Because she realized that she had something important to say. Something that could change people’s lives for the better.

If you are guilty of playing small and not claiming your role as an expert, then you need to hear this episode.

Here are some of Catriona’s favorite things:

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Question: What’s one step that you can take to start positioning yourself as an expert? Go ahead and be brave. Add your answer to the comments section below. I read and respond to every comment.