Have you been in a room or attended an event and it felt like people were talking over your head? This is okay if it is in an area where industry jargon is being used and it has nothing to do with your profession.

For example, let’s say you’re an accountant but everyone in the room is in the medical field. Once the medical terms start flying around, you’re probably going to feel a little out of place, but if the roles were reversed, they would be in the same predicament.

But what if you are in a room with people in your industry or a group that has similar interests as yourself? You should be able to hold your own in this type of setting, right? Well yes and no.

This is where knowledge and experience come into play. If you want to be viewed as an expert in your industry, you must be able to converse and offer solutions on topics related to what you do. This isn’t something that happens overnight, it takes years of work, study, and spending time/learning from experts in your field.

Taking the Next Step

There comes a time in the life of many young professionals where they find themselves in the company of industry leaders. Polished professionals speaking on topics related to what you do day in and day out and you find yourself wondering “what are they talking about?”

Some people are intimidated by this, but future leaders are motivated. They use these experiences as fuel to be better and work harder to become an expert in their industry.

This may require attending events and seminars, continued education (formal and/or informal), spending time with industry leaders, etc. Much of what we learn in business is by being around those that do it best. Picking up on little nuances that help us move forward.

Conclusion

Ultimately it takes time and effort to reach your highest potential. This is one of the reasons why the average age of Fortune 500 CEOs is over years old. The biggest companies in the value experience. They understand that the man or woman that is going to put them in the best position to be successful is someone that is a thought leader. A wise and knowledgeable individual that can offer solutions.

So, the next time you’re in a room where people are talking above your head. Sit back, soak up the information and learn. Don’t try to pretend you are something you are not. Pay attention to what the experts are saying and the way they are saying it. Before you know it, you’ll be the one people are learning from.