Managing Imposter Syndrome
Managing Imposter Syndrome
Lots of people feel the effects of imposter syndrome, which happens when there's a mismatch between how we present ourselves and how we feel inside. This can lead to self-doubt. Those experiencing imposter syndrome often worry they'll be exposed as a "fraud" by friends, colleagues, and family.
What is the impact of Imposter syndrome?
The impact of imposter syndrome can be deep and wide-ranging.
On the inside, it can lead to self-doubt, anxiety, and depression, as individuals fear being seen as "not enough." This inner turmoil often spills over into their performance, leading them to fall short of their true potential due to self-doubt. They might shy away from challenges they would otherwise take on, ultimately hindering their growth and self-actualisation.
The ripple effect of imposter syndrome doesn't just stop at the individual; it can also affect their interactions with others, whether that's in a group, family, or team setting. Under-performance can result in less-than-ideal dynamics, impacting the collective.
Getting help for imposter syndrome can be tough, especially since it's a topic not frequently discussed in the open. Most people suffering from it, by nature, prefer to keep it under wraps. And, there are not many specialised training programmes out there that focus on addressing imposter syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome involves reconciling your inner-self, with the way you present yourself to the world.
A balanced personality doesn't exhibit a major discrepancy between the two, allowing individuals to express themselves with clarity, freedom, and self-assurance. This leads to a harmonious self-image that is free from internal conflicts.
Embarking on the journey to tackle imposter syndrome requires a concerted effort to align your thoughts, feelings, and actions, ensuring there's no discord between how you feel inside and how you present yourself. This alignment is a crucial step towards successfully managing imposter syndrome and reaching your full potential.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
If you would like to learn more about managing imposter syndrome, please attend our Overcoming Imposter Syndrome course.
Definition: imposter syndrome
In work life, imposter syndrome is a state of mind where a skilled person feels like a fraud. It shows as a gap between what they believe about themselves and what others see, causes ongoing doubt and fear of being found out, and holds back their drive to seek new goals.
Show CG4D Definition
- Inner belief of fraud despite clear success
- Gap between private self-view and public proof of skill
- Ongoing fear of being found out by others
- Limits action, growth, and willingness to take on challenges
Article Summary
Imposter syndrome fades when you match what you feel inside with what you show outside; list your real skills, share true wins, act with purpose, and watch self-doubt give way to calm, steady growth for you and your team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.
What is imposter syndrome in simple words?
Why do capable people still feel like frauds?
How does imposter syndrome harm work performance?
Can imposter thoughts spill into life outside work?
What daily habit helps manage imposter feelings?
When should I seek extra help with imposter syndrome?
Does sharing wins with others really lower self-doubt?
Thought of something that's not been answered? Ask Us Today!
Did You Know: Key Statistics
The 2024 LinkedIn Workplace Confidence Survey found that 67% of UK professionals felt imposter syndrome at least once in the past week. The CIPD Good Work Index 2023 reported that employees who often feel like imposters are 21% less likely to apply for an internal promotion.About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years' experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
Blogs by Email
Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!
Further Reading in Leadership and Management
-
The Double-Edged Sword of Humour in Business
Learn how skilful humour in leadership lifts morale, sparks creativity and drives output, plus simple rules that stop workplace humour from harming respect.
Read Article > -
Guiding Teams Towards Success
Learn how Aristotle’s four causes, plus potential and actual thinking, help leaders shape environment, actions and goals that unlock team success and growth.
Read Article > -
Effective Customer Service - The Fab Four
Learn how communication, know-how, smart systems and a helpful attitude form the Fab Four customer service skills that add value, boost loyalty and fuel growth.
Read Article > -
What is Presenteeism?
Learn what presenteeism is, why it drains productivity, and steps any employer can take to cut sickness presence through better health, management and culture.
Read Article > -
Tannenbaum and Schmidt's Leadership Model
Use the Tannenbaum and Schmidt model to match your leadership style to task, team and timing. Master the tell, sell, consult, share, delegate scale for output.
Read Article >
Looking for Leadership and Management Training?
If you're looking to develop your Leadership and Management Skills, you may find this Leadership and Management Training Course beneficial:
Open Training Course Pricing and Availability
Next Open Course Starts in 12 days, Online - Teams, places available