Being completely honest, no one actually knows what they are doing at any given time. Is there a secret to making it seem like you do? Self-confidence, nodding, and an ace up your sleeve. Here’s the step-by-step, foolproof guide to faking it until you make it, hopefully.
Step 1
Walk in like you own the place. Shoulders back, chin up, eyes up, and a steady walk, even if you don’t know your destination. Confidence is 99% body language. No matter how loudly you may be thinking, “What is going on?” your walk must give off the “I do this in my sleep” energy. Try to only look ahead and not make eye contact with those around you, as that can make you look nervous.
Something that can help with this is to bring a prop with you. A coffee cup, clipboard, or laptop can make other people think you look like you know what you are doing.
Step 2
Nod along with what others say, even if you’re confused. If someone is telling you something that you don’t get, just pretend like you understand, and forget it. It can help to nod thoughtfully and slowly, like you’re processing the information thoroughly. Adding a low “mhm” or “right” like it just clicked, even if it actually didn’t.
If there is someone with you that you are closer to, try to find some quiet time and whisper to them to stay updated on the situation. Once you’re totally lost in a conversation, it can be hard to keep up. Using context clues and asking others is the best way to stay connected.
Step 3
Find the person who actually knows what they’re doing and follow their lead. There is always someone who actually knows what is going on. Observe them. Mirror their behavior, including how they sit, talk, and even the questions they ask. Write those down. If you’re feeling brave, it would be beneficial to speak to that person about the topics you’re confused about.
Step 4
Search for every unknown term later. As soon as it is possible, look up every term, phrase, and acronym that you had nodded along to earlier. It can help with your future discussions with the same person. It is interesting to find out if you were on the right track or if you wholeheartedly agreed to something totally strange. That will be your later problem.
Step 5
Try to prepare for this event or class earlier next time. Remember that we learn from failure, not success. It can be hard to know when the situation will arise, but stay on your toes and be prepared for anything that comes your way.
At the end of the day, we all have to fake it sometimes when we get caught in an unexpected situation. The people who seem like they have everything together? They have just worked harder at looking good while faking it. Keep going. Fake smarter. You’ll eventually actually know what you’re doing.
