Let’s get something straight: “Fake it until you make it” isn’t about lying or being deceitful. It’s about embodying the confidence, behaviors, and attitudes you need to thrive in business—even when you feel like a fraud inside. It’s about playing the role of the person you want to become until the skills, experience, and belief in yourself catch up.
Why not check out Fake It: How to Succeed by Faking It, Fake It Till You Make It, Look and Act Confidence by Gary Powell?
The world of business is a jungle, and not everyone enters it feeling fully prepared. That’s okay. Plenty of successful people started off clueless, anxious, and overwhelmed. What set them apart was their ability to act the part, learn fast, and hustle hard. In this article, I’m going to tell you how you can do it too—without crossing ethical lines or becoming a con artist.
1. Understand What “Faking It” Really Means
“Faking it” isn’t about outright lying. It’s not about exaggerating your resume or promising things you can’t deliver. Instead, it’s about projecting confidence and competence, even if you don’t feel it yet.
Here’s the key: Focus on actions, not illusions. Show up. Speak up. Act like you belong in the room, even when every nerve in your body is screaming that you don’t. Faking it is a mindset shift. You’re not pretending to be someone else—you’re becoming a better version of yourself.
2. Dress for the Job You Want, Not the Job You Have
Yes, appearances matter. People will judge you based on how you present yourself—so take control of that narrative. If you look sharp, people will assume you’re sharp. Invest in a wardrobe that matches the industry you’re in or aspiring to break into. It doesn’t have to be designer, but it does need to be clean, polished, and appropriate.
Pro tip: Get a decent pair of shoes. People notice them more than you think.
If you’re thinking, I can’t afford to buy a fancy suit or designer handbag right now, don’t worry. Thrift stores, sales racks, and rental services like Rent the Runway can help you build a professional look on a budget.
3. Learn the Lingo
Every industry has its own buzzwords, acronyms, and jargon. To fake it successfully, you need to speak the language. Immerse yourself in industry blogs, podcasts, and YouTube videos. Learn the terms, trends, and topics that professionals in your field are buzzing about.
When you can confidently toss around phrases like “KPIs,” “market segmentation,” or “agile methodology,” people will assume you know your stuff. Bonus: The more you immerse yourself in the language, the faster you’ll actually learn what it all means.
4. Master the Art of Small Talk
Small talk isn’t just fluff—it’s a bridge to meaningful relationships. Learn how to talk to people at networking events, conferences, and coffee shops. Start with simple questions like, “What do you do?” or “What brought you here today?” Then, actually listen to their answers. People can sense when you’re only pretending to care, so don’t fake interest—find something real to latch onto.
And remember: Confidence sells. Even if you’re shaking inside, maintain steady eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and smile. These simple cues can convince others—and yourself—that you’re confident.
5. Build a Killer Online Presence
In today’s world, your LinkedIn profile can make or break you. Polish it up. Use a professional headshot (no selfies!), write a compelling headline, and list your accomplishments in a way that highlights your strengths.
Even if you’re just starting out, find ways to showcase your potential. For example:
- Share articles related to your industry and add thoughtful commentary.
- Post about webinars or conferences you’ve attended.
- Write about your journey, lessons you’re learning, and goals you’re pursuing.
When people Google your name—and trust me, they will—you want them to find someone who looks ambitious, knowledgeable, and ready to take on the world.
6. Say “Yes” and Figure It Out Later
This is one of the oldest tricks in the book, but it works. When opportunities come your way, don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Say “yes,” then do whatever it takes to deliver. You’d be surprised how resourceful you can be under pressure.
Of course, this doesn’t mean overpromising or setting yourself up for failure. If a task is clearly out of your league—like performing surgery or writing a 100-page legal contract—be honest. But for challenges within your reach (even if it’s a stretch), dive in headfirst.
7. Surround Yourself with Smarter People
Here’s a secret: You don’t have to know everything. You just need to know people who do. Build a network of mentors, peers, and experts who can guide you, answer your questions, and fill in your knowledge gaps.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Contrary to popular belief, admitting you don’t know something doesn’t make you look weak—it makes you look smart enough to seek answers.
8. Project Confidence, Even When You Don’t Feel It
Confidence is magnetic. It draws people to you, earns their trust, and opens doors. But what if you’re not naturally confident? Fake it.
Stand tall, speak clearly, and act like you believe in yourself. Studies show that “power posing” (think: standing with your hands on your hips like a superhero) can actually boost your confidence levels. So, the next time you’re about to walk into a big meeting or pitch, strike a pose.
9. Overdeliver Whenever Possible
If you’re worried about being seen as a fraud, prove your worth through action. Deliver results that exceed expectations. Whether it’s turning in a project early, adding unexpected value, or solving a problem no one else noticed, go the extra mile.
Overdelivering not only builds your credibility but also boosts your own confidence. Each win, no matter how small, reinforces the belief that you belong.
10. Learn As You Go
Faking it isn’t a permanent state—it’s a bridge to where you want to be. The goal is to constantly learn and improve until you don’t feel like you’re faking it anymore.
Take courses, read books, watch tutorials, and seek feedback. Treat every mistake as a learning opportunity, and don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Remember, even the most successful people started somewhere.
11. Embrace Imposter Syndrome
Here’s the thing about imposter syndrome: Almost everyone feels it at some point. Yes, even the CEOs, founders, and experts you admire. The fact that you feel like a fraud doesn’t mean you are one—it just means you care about doing a good job.
Instead of letting imposter syndrome paralyze you, use it as fuel. Let it remind you to stay humble, work hard, and keep growing.
12. Focus on Building Real Value
At the end of the day, “faking it” will only get you so far. To truly succeed, you need to deliver real value. This means solving problems, making people’s lives easier, and contributing something meaningful to your industry.
Ask yourself: What unique skills, perspectives, or ideas can I bring to the table? Lean into those strengths, and don’t be afraid to stand out.
13. Be Authentic (Yes, Really)
This might sound contradictory, but hear me out. Faking it doesn’t mean abandoning who you are. In fact, authenticity is one of the most powerful tools in business. People want to work with, buy from, and invest in people they trust—and trust starts with being genuine.
So while you’re faking the confidence or expertise you haven’t fully earned yet, don’t fake your values, personality, or intentions. Be honest about your goals, and let your passion shine through.
14. Celebrate the Wins (No Matter How Small)
Success is a series of small steps, not giant leaps. Celebrate every milestone, whether it’s landing your first client, nailing a presentation, or simply surviving a tough week. These moments of celebration will keep you motivated and remind you how far you’ve come.
Final Thoughts: The Truth About “Making It”
Here’s the ultimate secret: No one ever truly “makes it.” Even the most accomplished people are constantly setting new goals, chasing bigger dreams, and battling self-doubt. The journey never ends—and that’s a good thing.
So stop worrying about whether you’re good enough, smart enough, or experienced enough. Start focusing on what you can do, who you can help, and how you can grow. Act the part, do the work, and trust the process.
Before you know it, you won’t be faking it anymore—you’ll be living it.
