Who does the term "expert consultant" refer to in decision-making?

The term "expert consultant" in decision-making refers to an individual with more knowledge than the consumer. This designation typically implies that the expert possesses a deeper understanding of a product or service, thereby providing informed guidance to help consumers make decisions. This expertise could come from formal education, years of experience in a particular field, or specialized training.

Such individuals are often sought after because they can offer insights that the average consumer may not have, leading to more confident choices. This can include professionals like financial advisors, technical specialists, or industry experts who help consumers navigate complex options.

The other choices involve various types of influences in the decision-making process, but they do not necessarily meet the criteria of being an expert consultant. Friends and family provide personal opinions based on experience, marketing professionals aim to create awareness and promote products rather than offer impartial advice, and salespeople can provide product knowledge but may not always have the comprehensive expertise to be considered true consultants.