By: Robert Radi, Ph.D., MBA
March 2021
The expression “Fake it until you make it” has been a recurring figure of speech in self-help and motivational circles for many years. Often, it is used as tongue-in-cheek expression when someone expresses doubt about their competency. The expression’s origin usually depends on who you ask. Some argue that Simon & Garfunkel’s “Fakin’ It,” released in 1968, is what started it all: “And I know I’m fakin’ it, I’m not really makin’ it.” Whatever the origin, substantive leadership implications exist as the expression promotes inauthenticity and adversely affects individuals and those around them. We have seen many instances where executives have taken “Fakin’ It” literally and a few steps too far with disastrous consequences for organizations, the community, and society.