70% of Us Struggle with Imposter Syndrome at Work – Here’s How to Beat it
Ever had a time where a job interview went great, you were offered the job, only to find yourself thinking, “How did I get this job? What am I doing here? What if they realise I’m not good enough?” If this sounds familiar, it may be a sign of imposter syndrome- when you doubt your achievements and fear being seen as a “fraud,” even when all the evidence says otherwise. And you are not alone… Around 70% of people are likely to experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives. It has also become an increasingly talked about topic with searches for ‘what is imposter syndrome’ up 17%, and TikTok seeing a surge of videos around this topic as creator share their experiences.
Videos: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdTDhvdh/, https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdTD2GQu/
With job-hunting season fast approaching, with January and February being the time when a lot more new roles are posted, Ben Wright, Global Head of Partnerships at Instant Offices, has shared five ways to overcome imposter syndrome.
1. Knowledge is POWER
The more you delve into your industry of work, the more confident you will be in discussions and meetings. Show up and be seen for the star you are. A growth mindset is key. You may think you’re behind, but you are further than you’ve ever been.
2. Remember that you are valuable
Remember why you were hired in the first place, as ultimately, it’s because you bring value. Embrace your role and strive to become indispensable. Regular journaling can reinforce this mindset. You didn’t just “get lucky”, you worked for the opportunity.
3. Find an ally
A healthy workplace creates an environment where you feel supported and comfortable speaking up. One great way to build your confidence is by finding a mentor or ally – someone you admire who can offer guidance and encouragement. It’s easier said than done, but try not to compare yourself to others. Instead, admire and learn – then use that new knowledge to strengthen your own skill set.
4. Understanding that being uncomfortable is normal
Ultimately, our mind can be our biggest hater, not our jobs. Feeling out of your depth is normal when faced with new challenges. It’s okay not to have all the answers and approach each situation with a beginner’s mindset- eager to learn and grow.
5. You are not alone
When you’re in this mindset, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one going through it. But the truth is, almost everyone you admire has had a moment where they questioned whether they were good enough. Remembering that can help you clear your head and see that these feelings are only temporary. Take a step back and remind yourself of everything you’ve achieved to get where you are today.