One factor that differentiates one valuation expert from another is giving back to the profession, either by volunteering, teaching, writing, and so on. A recent list of “Questions to Ask Your Business Appraiser” from UHY Advisors contains three questions that relate to this:

• Have you done any presentations on valuation-related subjects? If so, when and to whom?
• Have you written any articles on valuation-related subjects? If so, please describe.
• Have you ever held a position as officer or board member for a professional organization involved in business valuation? Please describe.

These activities also help to establish your authority in a particular niche, whether it be an industry or specific area of valuation.