When hiring a subject matter expert, evaluate their credentials, experience, and ability to meet deadlines. Subject matter experts are often relied upon by companies for educational courses and training materials, and their qualifications should be consistent with recognized authorities in their field. Other considerations include industry recognition, teaching experience, and publication history.
When choosing a subject matter expert, first consider their professional achievements and credentials and determine if they are truly an expert. You should find out if the subject matter expert has experience working on projects similar to those for which you need to hire a consultant. Finally, you must determine if his services are affordable and if he is able to meet deadlines and will be available for timely consultation on your project or projects.
Many companies that develop educational courses or publish training materials rely on third parties to write these materials, review materials, or provide suggestions for new product ideas. These hires are known as subject matter experts and are usually people with a high degree of experience, education, and authority in their field. Because editors may not have significant or specialist knowledge of the subjects covered in courses or textbooks, they may rely heavily on subject matter expert knowledge.
Carefully evaluate the resume or curriculum vitae provided by a subject matter expert. Your educational achievements must be consistent with those of other recognized authorities in a field or industry. For example, if a person in a particular profession is expected to hold a master’s degree in order to practice and supervise others, the subject matter expert must also hold at least a master’s degree. All educational credentials must also be checked for legitimacy.
The professional experience of the subject matter expert should also be reviewed and verified. Ideally, a specialist has significant real-world experience in the fields for which he or she consults. Look for length and breadth of experience. The subject matter expert should have a long history of work where he or she has consistently advanced in his or her profession and taken on new responsibilities. Talk to employers, colleagues, and past clients about the consultant’s work ethic, quality of work, and ability to complete projects on time.
Other considerations include gaining recognition and respect within your industry. Awards from an employer or, better yet, an industry association can be a good indicator of a candidate’s competence. Find out if he or she has teaching experience or has been invited to speak at events. Review your publication record. A publication history in industry magazines or peer-reviewed journals is often a strong indication of a person’s competence and knowledge.
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