i started a new job 6 months ago. i do not feel i have the skills/confidence to do the job properly?

Question

service users have complained. i feel stressed / ineffectual.
manager says they are going to try + help me
i think i have overstated my abilities at interview (selling myself)
what is the point of emphasising your strengths at an interview?
what you get the job you can't dliver the goods

Answer 1

I think it's sad that American culture, which is full of salesmanship, requires people to exaggerate everything, including their capabilities. For this, I sympathize with you. The point is that to a certain extent, this is expected. Were you to be too humble and self-effacing, people might not even notice you.

On the other hand, employers' needs for particular skill sets and ability levels are usually exaggerated as well. This means that many people can do many jobs, even if they don't have the desired skill sets.

If you get a job and can't deliver the goods, you will probably be dismissed eventually. But in your case, since your employer is willing to work with you to improve your skills, take this as an opportunity to learn to do a better job. It will be a great boost to your self-confidence if you work hard at it and gain new abilities. What your employer is offering you is a rare thing these days. I think you should be hopeful and do your best to learn and practice the skills you need to do your job well.

Answer 2

It is best to be honest about your strengths, you stated that perhaps you overstated them, which means you sold yourself based on skills you don't have.

Now that you have the job, is there a way for you to learn the skills you need to perform well? Is there some kind of training you can go to? The company may pay for this, or you may have to pay yourself, but that would be your first course of action.

Next time, sell your real skills, not those that you don't have.