Blagged myself a job I'm not qualified for

[YellowRock]

I've been offered a job, that required a degree and experience within an area that I don't have. I have no degree, I don't even have a-levels. I do have 8 years experience in a very similar area, but not exact and at a basic administrative level. I'm going to be managing 3 people too, which I have no experience with.

This is a proper career opportunity, not just another admin job like I've gone between for years. I'm 27, so relatively young for such a good opportunity to arise especially as I've all done is admin and I've also got young DC. I've gone from being elated to feeling sick. It was a very good interview, I studied my arse off for it and they said how impressed they were with the amount of time I'd clearly put in to researching the role, so it's not a total mystery why they hired me but I do have complete imposter syndrome and I'm just thinking I won't be able to do it.

Not sure why I'm posting, reassurance maybe, Eeek!

Did you lie to them about having a degree?
And to what extent did you lie about your experience?

Do you think you can do the job?
Do you WANT to do the job?

I’ve just had similar- a few years working in a HR admin role and got an opportunity to go in as the only HR person in a mid size company, with no HR system in place.

I was bricking it, but it’s actually fine.

The main thing to remember is don’t try and bullshit anyone. There is no shame in ever saying “I’m not sure about that one- let me go and research it and I’ll come back to you.”

If you have outright lied then that's completely different than getting a job on your merit. I mean I'd be fine with a self taught hair dresser, less so a surgeon.

@AlmostSummer21

Did you lie to them about having a degree? And to what extent did you lie about your experience?

Do you think you can do the job?
Do you WANT to do the job?

Yes sorry when I say blagged I mean I'm just shocked to be offered it, I didn't lie about anything. I just feel so unqualified and out of my depth! I want the job, that's why I applied I just really didn't expect to get an interview, let alone the job. I'm worried I'm not going to be good enough.

I'd be concerned about why they couldn't fine someone that meets their requirements. It's a red flag when a job will take anyone! Is it sales?

Fake it until you make it!

Have they got you more cheaply than they would have got a more experienced candidate?

Perhaps you were an excellent culture fit and they find that more important?

They wouldn't of offered you the job if they didn't feel you could do it.

Go for it! Best of luck x

As long as it’s more money then just fake it until you make it. You will be fine. Even someone qualified would have to be shown the ropes as every company does it differently

As long as syou didn't lie, then they know the score and have employed you for the skills you have and your trainability.

It's ok to feel a bit out of your depth, and along long as you have been employed for the reasons above you will be guided and not expected to know everything straight off. Be honest, ask for help - and remember you didn't blah anything!
Well done you.

How did you get an interview if you didn't meet their key criteria in terms of qualifications or experience?
Did you meet other essential criteria - unusual working hours?

*blag

I’ve interviewed many people over the years and everyone exaggerates a bit.
A male friend of mine did this and it was the best thing he ever did! You’ll be fine Op.
Sounds like you’re prepared to work hard and learn and that’s half the battle.

As someone who hires ppl frequently I tend to like a balance of mature experienced ppl on my team and talented up and comers with fresh energy and ideas that maybe don't have the experience but they just have that it factor and great communication skills. You probably fall into that category ... So enjoy don't worry you'll learn on the job you obviously have shown talent and potential. ☺️

They have acknowledged that I'm not the perfect fit, they said that although I don't have a degree I have years of experience in such a closely related field, I was only an administration officer in that field but I know the area thoroughly and could of stepped up in that time but didn't due to having kids and not really trying to progress until now. They did say it was very close between me and another candidate who had management experience but they were so impressed by the amount I'd researched about the area, role and what the team do and they felt personality wise I was a great addition to the team, they also said there a lot of progression opportunities in this field so it's a great area to start building a career in which seemed a good fit for me. They're all so lovely but I just feel like such an imposter and that maybe I should let them go with someone more experienced. I'm scared I'll leave my current role for this and then get let go soon enough when they realise I'm not good enough.

No it's not sales.

OP the fit with the team is so important and if they think you are ideal then that is brilliant.

The wrong manager can cause no end of upheaval to a team.

Def second what @SuperSharpShooter says.

It sounds great. And if you’ve researched it that much, then you’ll be able to learn it too.

They've put a lot of thought into choosing you. Trust their judgement, even if you don't trust your own abilities yet

What you feel is totally normal! How exciting for the new challenge ahead, be proud of yourself! You've got this! And CONGRATULATIONS! 🥳

I think @MsMeNz has it right actually. By the sounds of it you came in and were super enthusiastic for the interview re your research and they liked that. Enthusiasm will get you a long way. I’ve had really experienced people bomb at interview and others who were new but gave confidence they’d learn quickly and be really effective.

Give over. This is what opportunity feels like. Men do this all the time. We get socialised to be grateful and to make sure we can do it all before we start - throw yourself in like you did to your prep and make it a success.

@YellowRock

They have acknowledged that I'm not the perfect fit, they said that although I don't have a degree I have years of experience in such a closely related field, I was only an administration officer in that field but I know the area thoroughly and could of stepped up in that time but didn't due to having kids and not really trying to progress until now. They did say it was very close between me and another candidate who had management experience but they were so impressed by the amount I'd researched about the area, role and what the team do and they felt personality wise I was a great addition to the team, they also said there a lot of progression opportunities in this field so it's a great area to start building a career in which seemed a good fit for me. They're all so lovely but I just feel like such an imposter and that maybe I should let them go with someone more experienced. I'm scared I'll leave my current role for this and then get let go soon enough when they realise I'm not good enough.

There you go then, they like you!

A man wouldn't think twice about this situation. Women are notorious for imposter syndrome. Maybe dead up a bit on that amd how to manage it before you start xx

@YellowRock

They have acknowledged that I'm not the perfect fit, they said that although I don't have a degree I have years of experience in such a closely related field, I was only an administration officer in that field but I know the area thoroughly and could of stepped up in that time but didn't due to having kids and not really trying to progress until now. They did say it was very close between me and another candidate who had management experience but they were so impressed by the amount I'd researched about the area, role and what the team do and they felt personality wise I was a great addition to the team, they also said there a lot of progression opportunities in this field so it's a great area to start building a career in which seemed a good fit for me. They're all so lovely but I just feel like such an imposter and that maybe I should let them go with someone more experienced. I'm scared I'll leave my current role for this and then get let go soon enough when they realise I'm not good enough.

Unless you think they are all complete idiots who have no idea what they are doing then you should trust that they have chosen the right candidate. You are good enough so repay their faith in you by doing a bloody good job for them. Congratulations

At this level, a lot rides on the right person for the role. They obviously are confident that even if you lack the relevant quals, your other skills more than make up for it.

Well done!

@YellowRock I was you. I'm now an Associate Director. You've got this, you own it.

I've been very honest with my team about my lack of management experience. Most of it is organic and instinct.

You've got the job on merit.

You've got this