Why “Fake It, Until You Make It” is Bad Career Advice

A while back I asked a colleague how their new job was going and I was met with a playful giggle and the response, “you know, Fake it Until you Make It”. This conversation stayed with me and compelled me to write this blog on the effects of adopting a “Fake it Until you Make It” mindset.

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In today's professional world, you are often bombarded with career advice. One popular mantra that I’ve heard over the years is "Fake It Until You Make It." While the idea behind this advice may seem empowering at first, a closer look shows the potential pitfalls and long-term consequences associated with adopting this mindset.

Lack of Authenticity:

The basis of any successful career is authenticity. "Fake It Until You Make It" encourages individuals to project an image that may not align with their true abilities, skills, or knowledge. This lack of authenticity can lead to a disconnection between your public persona and your actual capabilities, eroding trust among colleagues, managers, and clients.

Short-Term Success, Long-Term Failure:

While putting on a facade might yield short-term gains, relying on the “Fake It Until You Make It” approach can have detrimental consequences in the long run. Genuine success is built on a foundation of real skills, competence, and expertise. Pretending to possess these qualities can result in a shaky foundation that is likely to crumble under pressure.

Imposter Syndrome:

Constantly pretending to be something you're not can contribute to the development of imposter syndrome—an internalized fear of being exposed as a fraud. This can effect on your mental health, causing stress, anxiety, and a perpetual sense of inadequacy.

Missed Learning Opportunities:

Embracing the “Fake It Until You Make It” mindset often means neglecting opportunities for learning and growth. Real career development involves acknowledging areas of improvement and actively seeking ways to enhance your skills. By pretending to already possess all the answers, individuals may miss out on valuable experiences that contribute to their professional development.

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The"Fake It Until You Make It" mantra may sound appealing as a quick-fix solution for career advancement, the potential consequences associated with this approach make it a risky strategy. Building a successful and fulfilling career requires authenticity, continuous learning, and self-improvement. Rather than faking it, you are better off embracing your strengths, acknowledging your weaknesses, and actively working towards becoming the best version of yourself.

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If you’re wondering about individual I mentioned earlier, it didn’t take long before they and the organization went their separate ways!

Honesty and integrity go a long way in your career and in life!

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