Beat impostor syndrome!

Our career paths are built on technical expertise and people skills that enrich your experiences and make you an ideal candidate for new roles. So why does the idea of a promotion or added responsibility often cause self-doubt? Am I ready? Will I succeed? Why me? Suddenly, you’re hit with the nagging feeling that you’ll never measure up.

Let’s say you’re presenting to a highly educated audience. You may find yourself shrinking: downplaying your strengths, questioning your ability to engage, persuade, or respond with authority.

That’s impostor syndrome at work.

Tackling imposter syndrome

For example, during a presentation.

First, you need to face your fear. Then shift your energy to your original intention. Think: I want to succeed. I want to inform this audience. If people are here to listen to you, you clearly have something valuable to share.

Instead of dwelling on fear, focus on your purpose and goals. Worried about performance? That’s actually good, because it shows you care about leaving your audience with something worthwhile.

I’d like to share some tricks that work for me: 

• Headed to a big business meeting? Blast music in your car or through your earbuds and sing your heart out. Who cares if people can hear? It’s one of the fastest ways to shut down that hamster wheel in your head.
• Right before you speak, think of a happy memory. It’s like magic: your face lights up, and your energy shifts both physically and mentally.
• Overconfidence is just cocky and off-putting. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Laugh off your mistakes. A bit of humour makes you more relatable and human.
• When doubt sneaks in, fight back with a power phrase: “I’ve got what it takes.” “I believe in myself—I’m capable.” This clears space for a positive headspace.
• Look back at your journey and inner strengths. Dig up those thank-you notes, that recognition, those moments of praise. Read them without downplaying them. Stand tall. Own your space. Let your self-esteem rise.
• Finally, perfection is a trap. You’re allowed to slip up. What matters is refusing to doubt yourself. If someone trusts you, accept it. Celebrate who you’ve become and the skills you’ve earned.

Now you know how to spot the impostor when it shows up, and you have the tools to deal with it. Now it’s your move!