Sometimes working with others isn’t always easy. When it comes to SMEs, it's no exception. So, how can you make the most out of your time while working with an SME?
First off, many people don’t even know what an SME is. Keeping it simple, an SME stands for Subject Matter Expert. They are the go-to people in a specific field or industry.
So, let’s say as the instructional designer, you’re hired to create a course on health care. But you know absolutely nothing about the healthcare industry. The topic makes your stomach twist just thinking about it. That’s what an SME is for. They’re the expert and will help you in creating and verifying all the content. No need to sweat.
That’s why it’s important to have a good relationship with your SMEs. If not, it can cause delays in your projects and become costly. Here are some tips to help.
Know Who They Are and Listen
Most likely your SME is senior director, manager, operations specialist, or some other high ranking position. They have a full-time job and years of experience in their fields, that’s why they’re the experts. Take time to listen to what they have to say. Most people are thinking about their thoughts and how they’ll respond while others are talking. Take a beat, open your ears, and close your mouth. Be humble and respect that they know what they’re saying. You hired them for a reason.
Respect Your SME’s Time
SME’s rarely have time. They typically are traveling a lot, while juggling their job and family. So, it’s crucial to respect their attention and not waste their time. Show a positive attitude towards the time they provide you and find ways to potentially save them time while working on your projects. Ways to save your SME time could include:
Involving your SMEs from the very start of your project
Providing your SMEs with easy ways to share their input and feedback whether that’s phone calls, emails, video conferencing, or voice memos, etc.
Use simple online review tools
Anything that can save them time will help and as a result make them happier.
Clearly Define Roles
Make sure the SME understands their role in your project. Clearly outline their responsibilities and your expectations. They provide you with the content as the expert, and you design the content into the learning experience. Each of you has a role to play. But you work as a team and respect each other’s positions. You design your project based on the client and target audience, not necessarily what the SME thinks is best. That is not their job.
Be Organized
Have a project management system to keep all work with your SME and the rest of your team organized. Create a schedule, set deadlines, and track progress. Staying organized for both you and your SME will make your lives easier.
Treat Them as Part of the Team
Your SME has most likely taught, shared, or presented content in their field on several occasions. They may have other ideas on how to deliver it to the learners. Invite your SMEs to your project meetings. Make them a part of your project planning so they can get to know the rest of your team. Provide them with a sense of community and value.
If they worked well with you and your team, thank them for their time and effort. You may want to keep them in mind for future projects, and hopefully, they’ll want to come back and work with you.