7 steps to be seen as a nutrition expert
Becoming an expert in any profession takes time and a commitment to learning, and the field of nutrition is no different. Here are 7 ways to help you be seen as a nutrition expert.
As dietitians, it can be tempting to fall into the trap of perfectionism, but thankfully you don’t need to know about every nutrition topic to be considered an expert. While an expert is defined as someone who has comprehensive knowledge or skill in a particular subject, it’s important to remember that this definition doesn’t say you need to know everything about everything. You just need to be an expert in topics that you are passionate about and know a lot about.
So, how can you stand out and be seen as an expert nutrition professional? Here are 7 ways for you to set yourself apart from the crowd and showcase your expertise.
7 steps to be seen as a nutrition expert
1. Study to become a registered dietitian or nutritionist
The best way to be taken seriously in nutrition (or any field for that matter) is to invest in your education. There are several paths that will get you to your end goal of being a registered dietitian. Do your research before starting a program to ensure it gets you the degree or certification you are hoping for.
TIP: Read this article if you want to learn more about how to become a registered dietitian.
You can also take advantage of any additional courses or certifications that can help you be successful. Business, psychology, public health, and counseling are all great areas to expand your knowledge and can help you become a better nutrition professional.
2. Trust your instincts
After spending years studying dietetics in college (and also completing an internship, and passing the RD exam), you are well-educated in the field of nutrition. Have confidence in yourself and trust your abilities, but at the same time, do not put too much pressure on yourself, because nobody will have all of the answers. Know that you are capable and you know a lot more than you think you do!
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3. Choose a niche
Nutrition is a highly complex field and many different disease states require a different nutritional approach. This is why concentrating on a specific area of nutrition will boost your credibility as a nutrition expert.
While it is possible to have general knowledge in multiple areas, it is unrealistic to expect to be an expert in more than a couple of specialties. This is where niching down can help, as it allows you to focus on one area and become an expert in that specific niche market.
TIP: Check out this article to learn more about niching down.
4. Read articles and do peer research
As a dietitian, you’ll never stop learning! As science and trends change and evolve, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest and greatest. You can read articles, listen to podcasts, and follow top nutrition experts.
- Listen to podcasts. This is an excellent way to keep up with current trends, nutrition topics, and business ideas. And the best part is that they are free!
- Follow top experts in your field. You can further your knowledge and learn more about how top experts approach nutrition. As we all know, there are many ways to reach the same outcome. To find what works best for you, look at what other nutrition experts are saying, and implement it in a way that benefits you.
- Subscribe to research journals or professional magazines. Not every article or research paper will be relevant to your primary area of interest, but you may still find them informative and insightful.
5. Invest in continued education
Continuing education credits are required to maintain your dietitian credentials. Find courses that are relevant to your area of practice or will enhance your skills as a nutrition professional. Conferences are a great way to earn multiple continuing education credits at a time and also provide an opportunity to network with other nutrition professionals.
6. Align with other professionals in respected organizations
The benefits of joining professional organizations go beyond elevating your status as a nutrition expert. Many provide additional tools and resources for you to be successful as well as connect you to top nutrition experts.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers several Dietetic Practice Groups that you can join based on your area of interest. These organizations are great places to network and also ask questions about complex situations. Many also offer educational opportunities through webinars and continuing education courses.
7. Be present on social media
When used properly, social media can be an incredible marketing tool, as it has the ability to boost your credibility with relatively minimal effort. It allows people to see firsthand that you are an expert in nutrition, but it also gives you an opportunity to create your own space and amplify your voice.
TIP: Here’s the ultimate guide for how nutrition professionals can stay up to speed in the world of nutrition.
Summary
In any profession, there will always be room to grow and learn. This is especially true in science-based fields such as nutrition. While there will be times when you do not have all the answers or you doubt yourself, know that all your hard work and dedication have made you the nutrition expert you are.
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References:
Expert definition and meaning. Retrieved October 20, 2022 from https://www.dictionary.com
