OMG! Stop Trying To Fake It Till You Make It
Nagui Bihelek
Behavior Scientist & Behavior Intelligence Expert | Workplace Dynamics Specialist | Unlocking Potential | Driving Collaboration | Guiding Transformation
The Pandemic of Dishonesty: Navigating the Perils of "Faking It Till You Make It"
In an era where authenticity seems to be fading into the background, a different kind of pandemic has emerged—one that doesn't affect our physical health but undermines the very foundation of trust and integrity in our professional environments. This pandemic is the widespread acceptance of dishonesty, particularly in the context of professional qualifications and capabilities. The mantra "fake it till you make it" might sound harmless or even motivational at first glance, but upon closer inspection, it reveals a troubling trend with far-reaching consequences.
The Fallout of Faking It
When individuals embellish their resumes or overstate their skills, the repercussions are manifold and manifest in various aspects of workplace dynamics:
1. Communication Breakdowns: The lack of genuine substance becomes evident in all forms of communication. This not only diminishes the confidence of team members in one another but also erodes trust over time. People, especially those who have experienced deception before, develop a keen sense for detecting insincerity.
2. Unmet Expectations: The premise of "faking it" sets an unrealistic expectation of delivery on promises that cannot be fulfilled. This failure not only disappoints but also damages the collective morale and trust within a team or between a service provider and their client.
3. The Essence of Dishonesty: At its core, faking it equates to lying. It's a deceitful practice that prioritizes self-interest over the well-being and trust of others. This selfishness not only harms the individual's reputation but also jeopardizes the integrity of the entire organization.
4. A Self-Centered Approach: By choosing to fake their capabilities, individuals show a blatant disregard for the potential harm they inflict on others. They rob their colleagues of the opportunity to offer genuine support and deprive decision-makers of the chance to make informed choices.
5. Financial Implications: The cost of dealing with dishonesty is staggering, with companies losing billions annually. The process of identifying and rectifying hiring mistakes is costly, not just in terms of financial resources but also in the time and effort spent in fostering a trustworthy work environment.
A Call for Honesty
The solution, while simple in theory, requires a collective shift in mindset: embrace honesty. Employers are not adversaries; they are allies in the journey of professional growth. They are prepared to invest in the development of their employees, but this investment is predicated on the foundation of trust and honesty.
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The Role of AccuMatch Behavior Intelligence Assessment
In navigating this pandemic of dishonesty, tools like the AccuMatch Behavior Intelligence assessment emerge as invaluable resources. This assessment provides an objective analysis of an individual's behavioral patterns, offering insights that go beyond the superficial layers of resumes and interviews. By understanding one's true behavioral tendencies, individuals and employers can engage in more honest, productive dialogues about capabilities, growth areas, and support needs.
Recommended Steps to Follow
1. Self-Assessment: Begin with a candid evaluation of your skills and capabilities. Acknowledge areas for improvement without resorting to embellishment.
2. Utilize AccuMatch: Engage with the AccuMatch Behavior Intelligence assessment to gain a deeper understanding of your behavioral patterns and how they align with your professional aspirations.
3. Open Dialogue: Foster an environment of transparency with your employer. Discuss your genuine strengths and areas where you seek growth and support.
4. Continuous Learning: Commit to a path of continuous professional development. Embrace opportunities for training and upskilling as a means to authentically "make it."
5. Integrity Above All: Prioritize honesty in all professional interactions. The trust you build will be the cornerstone of your long-term success and fulfillment.
In conclusion, while the temptation to "fake it till you make it" might seem like a shortcut to success, the long-term consequences of such dishonesty far outweigh any temporary gains. By embracing honesty, leveraging tools like the AccuMatch Behavior Intelligence assessment, and committing to genuine professional development, individuals can build lasting careers founded on trust and integrity.
Thanks and Best Regards