Overcoming the Imposter Phenomenon
It won’t come as a surprise that the talk I’m asked to present the most is on Imposter Phenomenon!
When experiencing a healthy dose of self-doubt, phrases such as “fake it until you make it” encourage us to feel like we should expect to have imposter syndrome at some point in our careers.
Is it a ‘thing’ or something made up by the media?
The term ‘Imposter Phenomenon’ was coined in the 1970s by Pauline Rose Clance and Susanne Imes and is indeed a psychological experience. IT IS NOT a ‘syndrome’ as it’s an experience rather than a diagnosis. They described it as an “intense feeling of phoniness despite evidence to the contrary.”
This phenomenon, while it isn’t a diagnosis, does have an impact on mental health and self-esteem, especially for women hoping to work up the corporate ladder. Many experience anxiety and self-doubt, and it’s often more common in high-achieving individuals.
Understanding the Imposter Phenomenon
The imposter phenomenon refers to a persistent feeling of inadequacy. Female leaders often attach their achievements to luck or external factors rather than their own competence. This mindset can hinder career growth in corporate environments and prevent talented leaders from embracing professional development and promotion opportunities.
Studies carried out in 2018 (Jorge et al., 2018) found that a lack of women in leadership positions can negatively impact business performance. Yet, when women take on leadership roles, the company experiences high-level performance. The study implied that increased female representation, especially in STEM, can promote economic growth, create employment, and reduce poverty.
If so, why are so many competent women not seeking promotion at board level?
How can you identify if you’re experiencing imposter phenomenon?
Fear – You might constantly feel that you’re about to be ‘found out’ and that your incompetence will be discovered, leading to judgement, a visit to HR, or dismissal. You probably overthink the probability of something going wrong.
Tainted Success – You never celebrate a business success because you believe it was either good timing, sheer luck, or thanks to something outside your control. You also underestimate your ability to handle situations.
Perceived Lack of Plausibility – You are in a minority and cannot explain how you ‘slipped through the net’ to get there.
How Does This Impact Leaders?
Unfortunately, societal expectations, stereotypes such as traditional gender roles, and biases in the workplace mean that women can experience a higher level of imposter feelings. These beliefs manifest as self-doubt, meaning potential leaders are hesitant to speak up in meetings, reluctant to apply for promotions, and lack confidence in their abilities.
This internal conflict can create barriers that prevent highly talented candidates from stepping into leadership roles despite being fully qualified and capable.
KPMG revealed that 75% of female executives experience imposter phenomenon during their careers. 57% saw an increase in these feelings during promotions or taking on a new role. This study found that feelings of self-doubt were heightened when in an environment where women are underrepresented.
That underrepresentation can be enough to maintain impostor feelings, creating a cycle in which the lack of female leaders reinforces the imposter’s belief that a promotion or board-level position is unattainable.
According to a report by Leanin.org and Mckinsey & Company, women represent 47% of the general workforce, but only 40% reach entry-level management.
However, there are strategies you can work on to help you overcome imposter feelings.
Recognise and Reframe Negative Thoughts – Self-awareness is the first step. Acknowledge imposter feelings when they come up and challenge these thoughts by reflecting on your accomplishments. Keep a Positive Attitude Log and record everything, no matter how big or small. This can provide evidence of your capability and progress.
Seek Support and Share Experiences – Connecting with mentors, coaches, or supportive peers who have faced similar experiences can normalise these feelings. Talking openly can improve isolation and reinforce that experiencing imposter phenomenon doesn’t make you less qualified or capable.
Talking our thoughts through with someone can often help. Looking at available options and discussing these openly and honestly without fear of judgment is a wonderful way to reach clarity of mind.
Coaching is a gentle way of supporting, guiding, and encouraging you.
Accept Imperfection – Understand that perfection is impossible and not required for success or leadership. Embracing a growth mindset, which views challenges as opportunities to learn rather than threats, can reduce anxiety around performance.
“Perfectionism is a terrible burden. It’s the one thing that often stands between us and real, lasting, deep happiness and the feeling of peace and fulfilment.” Kristina Mand-Lakhiani, Founder of Mindvalley.
Celebrate Your Successes – Regularly acknowledge your achievements. When you are busy, it’s too easy to forget or even downplay your accomplishments, which reinforces imposter feelings. By openly celebrating your successes, you validate your abilities and boost your confidence. Self-reflection helps you identify your strengths and recognise areas that may need improvement.
Invest in Continuous Learning – Ongoing professional development can strengthen your skillset, reaffirm your capabilities, and provide additional confidence in your role. Be cautious of learning for confidence’s sake and being an eternal student; we never can learn enough and should not be constantly on a course in search of perfection!
Stepping into Your Leadership Potential
Overcoming imposter phenomenon is a journey that opens the door to greater leadership potential. As you become more confident in your abilities, you’ll more readily embrace opportunities and thrive in your professional environment.
Remember, experiencing imposter feelings doesn’t weaken your worth or capabilities. By recognising these thoughts and feelings and taking proactive steps to address them, you’re not just overcoming self-doubt but unlocking your true potential as a leader.
Trust yourself and your skills and confidently step forward into the leadership roles you deserve.
Take charge of your career today. Start by recognising when you are experiencing imposter phenomenon and what triggers these feelings.
“Simply put, Rebecca reduces the negative beliefs and behaviours that impede great performance.” England Rugby Football Union, Head of Department
Next Steps
Get in touch if you need more assistance working through life’s challenges and would appreciate a resource to encourage and support your goals and aspirations. We have a brilliant guide all ready and waiting for you!
“Rebecca is an absolutely brilliant coach. Straight-talking and yet empathetic, she really gets to the heart of issues. You leave a session feeling empowered, with a clear action plan. No subject is off limits as Rebecca understands that things being sub-optimal in another area of your life can affect how effectively you can operate at work. I would highly recommend Rebecca as a business coach, particularly in the legal sector.” Naomi Pride
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