As a person who is extremely determined and focussed on becoming a published author and to continuously better myself, I am open to all kinds of suggestions to help me fulfil my goals, ambitions and dreams.

However, the “fake it til you make it” principal fails to impress me and I cannot understand how anyone can make it work?

There are many people who I work with on a day to day basis who appear to use this to try and get ahead in the business, but rather than helping them, it has become a hindrance.

A classic example is a gentleman who I work with, (to protect his identity I shall call him Harry).  Harry has worked in many different departments over the years, and has established a wealth of knowledge along the way.  He has now moved into a different team/division of the business, and wants to better himself.  At this point I would like to point out that I totally respect anyone who wants to better and further their career, but my personal opinion is that there is a right way and a wrong way…

In my opinion, the right way to progress within the department would be to engage with the colleagues within the new department, establish what the new working practices/processes are, understand the systems and the integration of other areas of the business and then combine this new information with his existing skills and knowledge.  This however, takes time, hard work and dedication.

Instead, Harry has decided to cut corners to try and fast-track his career.  Rather than listening to the advice of colleagues who have worked in the department for many years, obtain a good sound knowledge of the new environment he is working in, he has simply purchased himself a smart suit and struts around the office bleating “technical jargon” to senior employees, which, in his opinion is supposed to impress people.  Unfortunately, rather than impressing people, he just sounds an idiot, and the feedback from the more senior managers within the department has not been very positive.

Therefore, anyone considering to use the “fake it” principal, I would think long and hard before putting it into practice.  Displaying confidence is fantastic, as long as you have some skills and knowledge to back this up.  If you have the confidence, but lack the skills you are trying to promote, you may find that people will not take you seriously, leaving you to work twice as hard to try and prove yourself.  Even worse, you could appear to be a blatant liar, which could seriously damage your career.

If you are serious about advancing your career and you want people to take notice of your skills and knowledge, then the best way is to work hard and study the field you wish to progress in.  If management within your business have previously overlooked you, try and capture their attention.   Suggestions could be putting your name forward to assist with any projects or show an interest by asking to be considered for any training courses to help develop your skills. 

Don’t be a fake – be genuine, and you’ll go a long way.