Are You Just Pretending?

Do you ever feel like you’re just pretending? Pretending to be a grown-up, a leader, a teacher, or an executive? You're not alone. According to Korn Ferry, 65% of senior executives believe they are not equipped to handle their job. This serious anxiety, if not addressed early, can persist into later career stages.

In my career, I’ve encountered two different approaches to this scenario, both starting with the

same phrase: ‘fake it till you make it’. While I’m not an advocate of faking anything, these experiences taught me invaluable lessons in life and career management.

The first person who used this phrase was a CEO of a high-growth firm I joined after completing my MBA. She was polished, professional, and someone I greatly admired. We worked well together, despite our different approaches. When she said ‘fake it till we make it,’ it was inclusive—we were in it together. She explained it as learning on the job with a bit of backup from research and learning from others. It built our confidence and led to the creation of a successful organisation that thrives today.

Later in my career, I encountered another leader who also believed in ‘faking it till he made it.’

However, his approach was exclusive and self-centred, and he wasn’t willing to learn from others.

This business failed, proving that the ‘fake it’ message, when seen as a shortcut, doesn’t work.

If you're one of the 65% who feels like an impostor, don’t let these emotions drag you down. Seek learning opportunities, view yourself as a vehicle for growth and self-development, and take the risks that learning entails. A great executive coach can guide you on your way.

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