Be An Expert Now: Fake It ‘Till You Make It

Have you ever “faked it ’till you made it?” You know, feigned confidence in a job or relationship until you really got the hang of it.

I first really learned about acupuncture (years before I went to school for it) from a friend of mine. She was newly licensed at the time and I watched her treat a mutual friend of ours. I was amazed at her seeming expertise! Years later as I was getting ready to graduate from the program myself and I asked her how she had come off so professionally way back then. She said, “fake it ’till you make it.” She admitted to being a total novice back then but she just focused on what she DID know and did her best to seem confident even when she was still learning.

That confidence is so powerful. Patients, bosses, clients and co-workers totally feel that energy and it’s so attractive! I’ve been to brow waxers who I immediately regretted as I sat in their chairs because they didn’t seem sure of themselves! …and there go my eyebrows.

How do you fake it?

• Stick to what you DO know.
• Instead of making up answers to questions you don’t know, offer to research it and get back to them.
• Remind yourself of your knowledge, training and hours of practice.
• Focus on doing what gave you great feedback in other instances.
• Stay positive.
• If something surprising happens, remain calm and take appropriate action in a focused manner.
• Keep your voice and body language relaxed.
• Remember to breath. Take a deep breath every once in a while to recenter yourself.
• Always be honest with yourself and with them about your capabilities.
• Be willing to learn a new method if they are asking for it.

What other tips work for you?