This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
P2: Fear will keep you average
Companies asking you to have x, y, and z requirements are stressing about the wrong thing. Yes, having specific experiences is helpful, but it doesn’t guarantee success on the job.
I can’t list how many tools, processes, and skill sets I’ve learned on the job.
Companies might ask for a set of things in the job description, but once you get rolling, you learn there is a plethora of things off the JD you’ll have to learn.
Every company I’ve collaborated with has a slightly or entirely different toolset.
But I never let unfamiliar toolsets and processes stop me from applying or learning how to succeed on a job (more on this at the end).
When you’re not a master of something, invest in education.
I spent the beginning half of my career completing several certification programs and hundreds of courses.
It helped offset my lack of experience. Now I have more experience, but I am far from knowing and understanding everything. You will never stop learning in your career because technology constantly evolves.
When you’re hungry for learning, you’ll outperform employees who know more than you.
Students frequently stress they don’t have the proper experience and domain knowledge.
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Don’t fret.
Here are some simple strategies to familiarize yourself before an interview or on the job:
Read informative articles
Complete a quick course
Pick up a book on the topic
Complete a BootCamp program
Complete a certification program
Get free mentorship from an expert
Fear Will Keep You Average
Never allow your lack of knowledge to prevent you from applying for opportunities.
It’s a proven fact that more men apply to jobs they aren’t qualified for, and fewer women apply to jobs they don’t feel qualified for.
Please be different.
Apply to any job that interests you.
If you never take a chance on yourself, how do you expect others to do the same?
Don’t have the experience? Educate yourself.
Laziness is often masked by fear. When we’re in unfamiliar territory, we frequently allow fear to hold us back from taking action (e.g., applying to a job, learning a new skill set, networking, etc.).
I offer a free career course and free coaching sessions. Why are you still not signed up?
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.