Ah, imposter syndrome. It’s the age-old term that gets thrown around to describe people (predominantly women, let’s be real) who constantly feel less than, despite all the evidence that shows the contrary.
According to recent SEEK data, a whopping 55 per cent of women have experienced imposter syndrome at work. That’s over half of the female workforce, plagued with self-doubt and a lack of confidence.
With a phenomena this big, there’s surprisingly (or unsurprisingly, depending on how you look at it) not much out there in terms of workplace support systems for those who might be experiencing imposter syndrome. Despite this, it can be debilitating, restrictive, and a pretty hefty hinderance on career progression.
I sat down with Soph Hirst, Gen Z Career Coach and founder of Workbaby, to pick her brain on all the hot tips and tricks to make imposter syndrome your bitch.
If you’re looking for ways to conquer your own imposter syndrome, or are wanting to create a workplace that is more supportive of those plagued by it, this one’s for you.
What is imposter syndrome?
Whilst it’s only gained traction in more recent years, the origins of imposter syndrome actually date back to a study in the 70s. It was first known as “imposter phenomenon”.
“This phenomenon was originally seen primarily in high-achieving women who felt they didn’t deserve their success — rather, it was from luck, and they had simply fooled everyone,” says Soph.
“Over time, the meaning has shifted, and now it’s something that affects all people from different genders, backgrounds, and walks of life.”
In a work context, it looks like a heck of a lot of self-doubt. Feelings of not being good at your job or that you might get called out for being a ‘fraud’ at any given moment are common.
“There’s so many scenarios that can affect your confidence at work. It can peak at certain times, too, whether it’s a new job, a project gone bad, or a lacklustre workplace support system,” says Soph.
“It can especially happen in rooms where you’re the only one who looks and sounds like you, whether that’s in terms of ethnicity, gender, or something else. It’s such a common way to feel, but it can also be so invisible.”
What makes imposter syndrome worse?
So much. So much makes it worse. Frankly, there are too many systemic causes to list the whole lot.
“For one, systemic bias when it comes to minority groups is pretty hard to shake. A lot of that is built right into the system,” says Soph.
“Aside from that, perfectionism, being early on in your career, or a toxic workplace can all contribute to feelings of imposter syndrome. Perfectionism is especially a tricky one — having your standards so high already can make it really easy to get into that self-doubt cycle.”
The real kicker when it comes to fuelling imposter syndrome is that mindset of “I just got lucky”.
“This idea of luck can be really damaging. It can make people think they need to work twice as hard because they’re not as smart or as capable as everyone around them,” says Soph.
“In one way, it can help with drive and ambition, but it also means having to fight constant feelings of inadequacy. The real tension here is having to navigate that fine line of being career-driven without it turning into beating yourself up.”
What are some ways of combating imposter syndrome?
Individually, approaching it with grace and patience is a good way to start.
“It’s important to recognise that you’re not alone: these feelings are normal, and they ebb and flow. You might feel it more in certain parts of your career, and less in others,” says Soph.
“Try and back yourself more in whatever way you can. Look for as much evidence as possible in your finished projects or tasks, talk through your learnings, and toot your own horn wherever you can.”
In other words: you deserve to be where you’re at. Don’t be afraid to shout about it!
Organisationally, it’s alllll about that open dialogue.
“Senior leaders need to talk about it. It’s the most healthy way forward,” says Soph.
“Having systems in place where people feel supported to raise issues, make mistakes, and experiment is arguably the most important approach. Feeling that psychological safety is really important.”
As a parting note, it’s critical to not look at imposter syndrome as a flaw.
“There are good sides to that self-doubt. It can help your work,” says Soph.
“Strike a balance of what is healthy, and what’s stopping you from putting your hand up for different opportunities. If you hit that point, it’s time for some self-reflection.”
In the meantime, gather that evidence, practice those morning affirmations, and above all, back yourself. You’re killing it, bestie.
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