New report finds employees are exaggerating their skills and knowledge in the workplace
More than a third of employees are faking their knowledge, skills, or experience as they face the challenge of remaining adaptable while artificial intelligence (AI) tools reshape work, according to a new report.
The latest report from the Addison Group found that 36% of the US labour force, or approximately 64 million people, have exaggerated their knowledge, skills, or experience because they felt pressure to stay competitive or appear capable.
"In other words, the pressure of today's environment is leading many workers to use a 'fake it until you make it' approach," the report read.
Among those who "faked" it, the report found that 47% have exaggerated their knowledge, skills, or experience. This includes:
- Pretending to understand something at work (25%)
- Exaggerating skills or experience on a resume or in an interview (24%)
- Pretending to know how to use a technology or tool (17%)
More than six in 10 employees (63%) also admitted that they accepted a professional challenge without feeling fully prepared. This includes:
Taking on work they did not know how to do and figuring it out as they went (45%)
Applying for a job despite not meeting many of the qualifications (36%)
Using AI to complete something they were not sure they could do alone (27%)
The report found that younger workers are more willing to "fake it" at work, as around half of Gen Zs admitted that they have exaggerated knowledge, skills, or experience (51%), as well as applied for a job despite not meeting many qualifications (47%).
AI reshapes skill security
The rise of these problematic behaviours comes as 93% of the workforce says at least one aspect of creating a successful career has become harder over the past five years.
Many of them also believe that AI is a major factor in this difficulty, with 37% saying that competing with automation has become harder and 24% worrying that AI could make some of their skills less valuable.
But while some are faking it, 83% of employees said they have taken at least one step in the past year to remain competitive, including 43% who taught themselves how to use an AI tool.
What can employers do?
Most employees (95%) noted that at least one form of support from employers would make them more confident about their career.
The most sought-after form of support relates to advancement and mobility (65%), which includes clearer paths for advancement (35%), more opportunities to take on new responsibilities (33%), and greater mobility to move into different roles within the organisation (29%).
More than six in 10 employees (63%) also said they want learning and development support from their employers, including:
- More opportunities to learn new skills on the job (38%)
- Greater access to professional development or certifications (29%)
- Training on how to use AI effectively (28%)
Meanwhile, 51% of employees said they want feedback and direction from their organisation. This includes:
- A clearer understanding of the skills they will need in the future (35%)
- Reassurance that existing skills will continue to be valued (31%)
- Feedback on which skills they personally need to improve (30%)
"This concept of 'skill security' is about giving people the skills and confidence to grow alongside the technologies reshaping the workplace," said Thomas Moran, CEO of Addison Group, in a statement.
"The key for employers is to help people develop both, creating pathways for their employees to take on new challenges, grow in their careers, and contribute in ways they haven't before."
