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Self-confidence is the main driver of incompetent people's careers
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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The glitter of social status has such a magical effect on some people that it makes them overconfident. This may explain why incompetent people tend to get promoted.
A study by researchers from the University of California and the University of Navarra in Spain was published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. It sheds light on why experienced and skilled workers find it so difficult to compete with less competent and educated, but more arrogant colleagues. Overconfidence is running high in modern society. For example, 94% of college professors surveyed by the researchers are convinced that they are doing high-value work. Statistically, this is impossible.
"Our study showed that overconfidence helps people improve their social status," said study co-author Cameron Anderson. "People who genuinely believe they are better than others are promoted to higher positions in their careers, even though their qualifications may not match the expectations of their superiors. Overconfidence is generated by the desire to succeed."
In work collectives, high social status attracts people because after receiving it, they will be treated more attentively and respectfully compared to other employees. The desire to dominate was embedded in man during the process of evolution, because the strongest always defeated the weakest. And to gain this power and place in the "pack" you can't do without self-confidence.
More skilled and talented workers tend to question their abilities more, which is why they don't get enough promotions.
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