Our greatest pretenses are built up not to hide the evil and ugly in us, but our emptiness. The hardest thing to hide is something that is not there. (Hoffer)
Many people say Saddam Hussein was the foremost expert in hiding what is not there. Rather than argue the facts, let’s exploit his methods. It works when you are trying to get a job or promotion to do something you have never done before.
Saddam showed great enthusiasm for the weapons he was not supposed to have. He built expertise in their design, construction and use. He got hold of parts of the technologies required to build the weapons and made sure the world knew it. Tests were done openly with related weapons and delivery systems. His experts visited seminars, arms factories and suppliers of illegal goods. There were even articles published by “insiders” who “blew the cover” of the program. Last of all, he refused to prove he didn’t have the expertise.
Here is how to apply Saddam’s tricks towards getting a job or promotion you have no experience for:
- Show enthusiasm for the job.
- Learn on your own. Get certifications. Join societies. Read related magazines.
- Start doing what you can. Programmers (to be) can create games and databases. Salesmanagers (to be) can lead popcorn sales for the Boy Scouts that gross a quarter million dollars. A computer technician (to be) can put together a network in his basement.
- Get a job in or volunteer to work somewhere that is doing what you want to do, even if you are not directly involved.
- Talk to people doing what you want to do. Attend their seminars and trade shows. Discuss the latest ideas in the field with people in that field.
- Start a blog. Write articles for trade publications–they are always starved for good thoughtful articles. Call reporters with ideas and quotes.
- List what you have done in your resume or job review. Do NOTapologize for lack of experience. Emphasize what you have done.
In order to get the first shot at your future, you have to prepare. Eventually your enthusiasm and persistence will get you an opportunity.