What Is A Subject Matter Expert And What Do They Do?

When organizations seek insights from individuals with specialized knowledge about a specific technology, process, or industry, they turn to subject matter experts (SMEs). In 2026, SMEs play a crucial role in navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving job market and technological landscape.

In this article, you’ll discover what SMEs do, the significance of their expertise, and how you can become one.

Key Takeaways

• Subject matter experts possess extensive knowledge in their field, helping businesses and clients make informed decisions and streamline processes.

• Continuous learning is essential for SMEs to stay updated on the latest industry advancements and best practices.

• SMEs can work as independent contractors or full-time employees, adapting to the increasing demand for flexible work arrangements.

What Is a Subject Matter Expert?

According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, a subject matter expert is a “person with bona fide expert knowledge about what it takes to do a particular job.” In essence, an SME is an individual within an organization who has mastered a particular job, technology, or process, and whose insights are invaluable for the rest of the company.

SMEs can be internal employees providing specialized insights into specific organizational needs, or they may serve as consultants who offer their expertise on a contractual basis.

While SMEs are often associated with technical fields like information technology, they are increasingly sought after in various industries, including:

• Information technology
• Healthcare
• Legal
• Education
• Finance and Accounting
• Public Relations
• Marketing
• Engineering
• Human Resources
• Software Development
• Customer Support

Effective communication is a cornerstone of an SME’s role, as they must convey complex information in an understandable manner to colleagues and clients who may have limited expertise in the subject matter. This skill is also why SMEs are often called upon to serve as expert witnesses in legal proceedings.

What Does a Subject Matter Expert Do?

SMEs assist organizations or clients in solving specific problems or providing guidance within their area of expertise. As workplaces increasingly employ cross-trained professionals, the demand for highly specialized knowledge has risen, making SMEs essential resources.

Alongside deep technical knowledge, successful SMEs must possess strong communication skills. Articulating complex ideas to non-experts is a crucial aspect of their consultative role.

Common duties of SMEs include:

• Developing processes that enhance business efficiency and consistency
• Consulting on software, equipment, and technology infrastructure
• Analyzing resource utilization and recommending efficient practices
• Teaching complex technical concepts in an accessible manner
• Aligning company values with strategic growth objectives
• Advising on best practices for specific projects, technologies, or processes
• Creating training materials for employees at all levels

While the responsibilities listed above are generalized, SMEs’ roles can vary significantly across industries. Here are a few examples of how SMEs contribute in different contexts:

• A team of engineers may consult an SME to evaluate innovative design or construction methods.
• The human resources department may seek SME insights to develop a new training program or conduct employee workshops.
• A project team lacking specific software knowledge may turn to an SME for assistance with unfamiliar technologies.
• In legal matters, a lawyer might hire an SME as an expert witness to clarify complex details relevant to the case.
• An IT specialist may consult various SMEs to optimize the integration of emerging software or troubleshoot issues.
• A marketing team may enlist a social media marketing expert for training on effective campaign strategies.
• A company may engage an SEO SME to enhance web traffic.

How to Become a Subject Matter Expert

Becoming a subject matter expert is a journey that requires time, dedication, and a commitment to ongoing learning. Here are the essential steps to guide you:

1. Choose your subject. Identify a topic you are passionate about, that is in demand, and offers opportunities for specialization. Research the qualifications held by top experts in that field and assess your ability to obtain similar credentials.

2. Build up your knowledge. Most SMEs possess one or more advanced degrees. If traditional classes aren’t an option, explore online courses and certification programs. Seek mentorship from established experts regarding valuable coursework and certification paths.

   Supplement your studies with practical experience. Engage in projects that allow you to apply your growing knowledge. Remember, authenticity and expertise are crucial as you interact with other professionals.

3. Never stop learning. Your education doesn’t end upon earning your degree. As an SME, you are expected to be the foremost authority in your field, which involves staying current through conferences, social media, and relevant literature.

4. Implement your ideas. Knowledge alone is insufficient; you must test your theories in real-world scenarios. This not only validates your ideas but also builds your credibility.

5. Get involved. Share your insights through various platforms, including social media, blogs, podcasts, or presentations. Start by engaging with trending topics and gradually contribute your unique perspectives.

   Consider creating a YouTube channel or other creative outlets to establish yourself as an authority in your field.

6. Learn how to simplify. Distinguishing yourself as an exceptional SME requires the ability to convey complex information clearly. Practice deconstructive thinking by summarizing intricate materials into digestible formats for broader audiences.

7. Be authentic. Trustworthiness is vital to your role as an SME. Ensure that your recommendations are unbiased and based on informed judgments rather than corporate influence.

The Downsides of Subject Matter Experts

Despite their value, there are challenges associated with being a subject matter expert:

• Big-picture blindness. Focusing too narrowly on a specific area can limit an SME’s broader perspective. While this may be acceptable for consulting roles, full-time SMEs must cultivate a general understanding of their organization’s overall strategy.

• Industry gap. An SME may excel in their field but lack knowledge applicable to other industries. This can complicate the job search if you aim to transition between sectors.

• Career change difficulty. Generalists often have more flexibility in their career paths, whereas SMEs may find it challenging to pivot to unrelated fields. Developing transferable soft skills can help mitigate this issue.

• Activity swings. Contractors frequently experience fluctuating workloads. Even in-house SMEs may find their work hours vary dramatically based on project demands.

Subject Matter Expert FAQ

1. Who qualifies as a subject matter expert?

   A subject matter expert is someone who possesses in-depth, current knowledge about a topic and is recognized as an authority in that area. This recognition typically comes from peers or industry leaders, underscoring the importance of external validation in this role.

2. Is subject matter expert a good career?

   Yes, being a subject matter expert can be a fulfilling career choice, particularly for those committed to their field. However, consider your long-term career aspirations, as this niche expertise may limit opportunities for lateral movement across different industries.

3. How long does it take to become an SME?

   Becoming a subject matter expert typically requires several years of experience and education, with the timeline depending on your specific field and background.

Final Thoughts

Mastering a specific skill set is commendable, but to make a significant impact in your professional environment, interpersonal skills are equally essential. Subject matter experts can sometimes be perceived as detached from the broader organizational vision, so it’s crucial to engage with colleagues and foster a collaborative atmosphere.

Share your knowledge generously, and your contributions will be valued in the workplace.

Author

Matthew Zane

Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.