What do you do if your GIS expertise is called into question?

1 Stay Calm

When faced with skepticism about your GIS skills, maintaining composure is crucial. Reacting defensively can exacerbate the situation and may even cast further doubt on your expertise. Instead, approach the situation as an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and clarify any misunderstandings. Remember that GIS involves a variety of competencies, from data collection to spatial analysis, and questions about your work may stem from a lack of familiarity with these complex processes.

2 Assess Concerns

Take the time to understand the specific concerns being raised about your GIS expertise. Are they questioning your technical skills, the accuracy of your data, or the methodology of your analysis? By pinpointing the exact areas of doubt, you can address them directly. This also shows that you are open to constructive criticism and willing to engage in a dialogue to improve your work or explain complex GIS concepts.

4 Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is key when explaining GIS concepts to those who may not be as familiar with the field. Avoid jargon and technical language that could confuse or alienate your audience. Instead, use analogies and relatable examples to make complex GIS processes understandable. This can help bridge the gap between your expertise and their perception, leading to a more productive conversation.

5 Seek Feedback

Inviting feedback is an effective way to engage with those who question your GIS expertise. Ask for specific examples or areas where they feel improvements could be made. This not only shows a willingness to learn and adapt but also provides you with valuable insights into how your work is perceived by others. Constructive feedback can be a catalyst for professional growth and can help you refine your GIS skills further.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?