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I casually posted this question on Twitter today and was amused and enlightened by the responses.
“What’s the difference between an expert and a guru?”
Here’s my favorite : “Expert knows his stuff, contributes to industry related publications, but may or may not have fans and followers. Expert becomes a guru when he/she has his own volunteer evangelists and fans who help spread his/her message.” - Varju Luceno
And some more:
- Expert is what you think of yourself. Guru is when others anoint you as an intellect!
- when people say ‘expert’ they want me to teach. They say ‘guru’ when they are unwilling to learn & just want me to do it for them
- A guru wears a robe.
- Ego
So, what’s your take - is one better than another, are they both silly, who gets to decide or should anyone, does the title enhance your marketability?
Personally, I think “guru” is rather silly when self-proclaimed. “Expert” sounds like you’ve got all the answers … so it’s a lot to live up to.
I read a post awhile back by someone who suggested the title of “marketing geek” because a geek is someone who is knowledgeable, but wouldn’t presume to know it all. A geek has broad knowledge of the subject at hand, yet is in continual learning mode. It’s a little different than what everybody else wants to call themselves and it fits me just fine.
I think the title of guru enhances your marketability, but once people start to think of you as a guru, rather than an expert, they also start expecting things of you they don’t from an expert.
Your time (for free!), for you to have certain opinions that align with their beliefs… and sure, you can lump that into the category of being the price of a slight bit of fame. Still annoying though. And ironically, the more giving and genuine I observe someone to be, the more people expect them to give everything away.
I know, I’m ranting. But this has been a constant conversation meme.
Back to experts though - on the other hand, it’s nice to be an expert, but if you can’t capitalize on it, what’s the point?
Varju does a pretty good job. I would venture to say that most people should never label themselves these terms. You can act in that role and teach and speak as if you are, but I think the distinction is dedicated to the audience. Experts seem more approachable in a way - gurus have that “oooh-aaah” feelings like you just met a celebrtiy! Of course John, you are my favorite marketing guru, but I find you very approachable (thanks for the email responses today!) And no to the Duct Tape guru robe - won’t be workin’ for ya.
Anyone who claims the title of “guru” almost certainly isn’t one. Anyone who allows themselves to be called a “guru” without laughing probably isn’t one.
Expert is a more interesting term with both an absolute and relative meaning. An absolute expert does in fact know his or her topic. A relative expert just knows a lot more than his or her audience.
Beware of self proclaimed gurus and experts. Both are titles to be awarded rather than claimed.
Example - John is both but claims neither.
A guru in Hindu terms is one who embodies the essence of God, which is your true being. In this case, it would refer to the knowledge which you possess, which the guru can evoke from you a la Socrates’s midwife.
An expert is a master of a skill. He can teach you the techniques which can lead you to mastery.
A guru is internal. An expert is external.
Great post John!
I agree with Varju’s definition. I am applying this to my industry and mostly to investors, as everyone wants a “guru” investor which is perceived as being more from the “gut” than someone who is an expert at reading charts or studying about investing all day.
Great insight as always!
Thanks… Sandy