How to Become a Subject Matter Expert in Your Field

A subject matter expert (SME) is someone who has a deep mastery and specialized knowledge of a specific subject. This might be a technology, a process, computer software or a specific role. SMEs could be internal employees who have been hired specifically for their knowledge, or they can work as a consultant. Uniquely qualified and known as the authority on a specific subject, an SME can function as a resource for other team members, from leadership down to assistants. As a rule, there are no specific people management duties that a subject matter expert is responsible for. They focus on their specific niche and provide services that relate to that.