Managing Imposter Syndrome

I coach some pretty smart professionals. Partners and Associates at law firms. Directors and Heads of Departments at large organisations. It may surprise you but imposter syndrome comes up FREQUENTLY in coaching sessions.

I hear both men and women share how they often don’t feel good enough, smart enough, confident enough. With the overwhelming belief that one day, someone is going to call them on it.

And this unsurprisingly negatively impact their careers. They don’t speak up when they know they should. At times they allow clients or stakeholders to “take the mick”. They disqualify from putting themselves forward for new opportunities.  They rarely push for promotion. 

Imposter syndrome is the feeling of being a fraud, despite having the skills, qualifications and achievements to prove otherwise.

And it affects the vast majority of us from time to time. The great news is that there are some tips and tricks to help you manage imposter syndrome so it doesn’t hold you back. Here’s 5 of my favourites: 

1.      Identify The Triggers: Imposter syndrome is often triggered by specific situations, such as starting a new project, facing a challenge, receiving feedback or comparing oneself to others. Know what your trigger is.

2.      Challenge Negative Narrative: Imposter syndrome is fuelled by negative thoughts, such as "I don't belong here", "I'm not good enough", "I got lucky", or "I will be exposed". These thoughts are often not based on facts but distorted beliefs & assumptions. Challenge negative thoughts by asking yourself to provide evidence to explore alternative explanations

3.      Celebrate Your Successes: Imposter syndrome can make you minimize or dismiss your successes and focus on your mistakes. Combat this by celebrating your successes- keep a record of your accomplishments, big or small e.g. feedback from managers or clients/ emails/text messages/recommendations and read them when you feel wobbly!

4.      Embrace The Learning Process: Imposter syndrome can make you fear failure, uncertainty, or change. Embrace the learning process by adopting a growth mindset (challenges are opportunities to learn and grow, rather than threats to your competence or identity)

5.      Seek Support and Guidance: Imposter syndrome can result in you feeling alone & not asking for help. Surround yourself with positive influences you can trust - identify your allies, mentors or role models and reach out for advice, guidance or inspiration.

Small things. Not rocket science. But effective if you actually do them!

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🔸If this is a topic you’d like to explore further, you may find my workbook on Imposter Syndrome helpful – you can download it free from my website. Imposter Syndrome Workbook (kerryjonescoaching.com)

🔸I also deliver webinars on this topic for organisations - do DM me for details.

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