The Toxic Trap of Expertise Bias

Let’s talk about how we brutalize new talent.

Imagine you’re a rookie basketball player thrust onto the court with Michael Jordan. You’re fumbling, struggling, trying to find your rhythm. And instead of guidance, all you hear is: “Why can’t you keep up, what are you stupid?”

This is how we destroy potential in every workplace, every day.

The Expertise Delusion

You’ve been in your profession for 35 years. You’ve got layers of experience – “patina on your patina.” A fresh hire walks in, and your first instinct is to tear them apart.

• “How didn’t you see that coming?”
• “Use your eyes”
• “Get a better flow”

Translation: “My dicks big and I’ve forgotten what it was like to be a beginner.”

The Unfair Comparison

Would you expect a first-time boxer to last three rounds against Floyd Mayweather?

Would you criticize a chess novice for losing to a grandmaster?

Of course not. That would be absurd.

The Real Cost of Your Arrogance

Every harsh critique, every dismissive comment is a nail in the coffin of someone’s professional development. You’re not just criticizing – you’re crushing potential.

What Mentorship Actually Looks Like

True expertise isn’t about highlighting others’ failures. It’s about:

• Remembering your own learning curve
• Offering guidance and support
• Creating space for growth

The Humble Truth

Everyone starts somewhere. That fresh hire you’re shitting on? They will be your next star performer – if you don’t destroy their confidence first.

Give them a chance. Remember when someone gave you a chance. Our shit stinks too.

Empathy isn’t weakness. It’s the most powerful professional skill you can develop.