How much is Imposter Syndrome costing your business?
You or your employees may be feeling:
- Afraid to come into work every day in case you get “found out”
- You don’t put yourself forward for opportunities
- You got lucky and that’s the only reason for your achievements
- Afraid to express how you feel, because then you’ll really be found out
- You need more qualifications before you can truly become an expert
- It would be easier to resign rather than face the shame of a missed promotion
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter Syndrome is that feeling you get when you think you’re not good enough and you’re going to be “found out” as a total fraud.
It’s more than just self-doubt, or lack of confidence.
It can be completely debilitating and cost companies lots of money in lost opportunities, lower productivity, and even resignations.
It can be a leading cause as to why women don’t occupy more senior roles in organisations and is particularly harmful when returning to work after an extended break.
Who does imposter syndrome affect?
Imposter Syndrome affects up to 70% of workers at some stage in their career. It impacts on both men and women, but they manage it in different ways. It happens at all levels in organisations, from entry level to senior executive leaders. You’ll never reach a stage where you don’t feel like an imposter, unless you actively do something about it.
How do you recognise imposter syndrome in others?
It’s next to impossible to recognise imposter syndrome in others, and people suffering from imposter syndrome are not very likely to admit that they have it because they think that by admitting it, they really are a fraud. When we suffer from imposter syndrome, we tend to hide it away from others at all costs.
However, some tell-tale signs could be that someone who is well capable is not putting themselves forward for promotion opportunities, they are not speaking up in meetings, working much longer hours than is expected.
What can you do to help people suffering from imposter syndrome?
The first step is to acknowledge that there is a problem and it is impacting on their work. Next you need to reinforce their own self-belief through positive feedback and affirmations. The last step is to take one small action towards overcoming the challenge, and by taking action our confidence builds and grows.
What do I need to watch out for when dealing with someone with imposter syndrome?
Be careful that you don’t trigger their imposter syndrome even further by learning how to deliver effective feedback. Create a psychologically safe work environment where people feel comfortable to speak openly about their concerns.
If you’re looking to get the most from your team, and you think imposter syndrome could be getting in the way, you can:
Direct them towards my free guide to overcoming imposter syndrome: Get a copy of my free guide
Join the waiting list for my corporate online program (currently waiting list only)
