Ask a Peer Mentor: Why do I feel like a fraud? Overcoming Imposter Syndrome.

Imposter Syndrome can show up at any time, even during your greatest career triumphs. Are there effective strategies to overcome it?

Dear Mentors,

I have just landed a new job in the most senior role I’ve ever had. This was exactly what I wanted but now I am experiencing self-doubt. I am the youngest person on the leadership team and sometimes the only female in a meeting. I feel everyone watching me. Do they know I’m making it up as I go along? What if I don’t actually have what it takes to do this job? Imposter Syndrome is real! How can I maintain self-confidence while trying to grow into an ambitious new role?

Thanks, Mentee

Editor’s Note: No matter your age or where you are in your career progression, feelings of self-doubt can creep into your thinking and threaten to hold you back. Fortunately, because Imposter Syndrome is so common, there are many ways to tackle this limiting mindset. When I’m feeling shaky, I can feel bolstered by something as simple as an anthem. Two of my favorites are Unstoppable by Sia and Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys.

Read on for more advice from our WCA Peer Mentors!  – Paige Booth

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Hey Friend!

First of all – CONGRATULATIONS! Wow. Take a breath. And then take a moment to celebrate the win and be proud of yourself. You can absolutely do this. Working on my self-talk has completely changed my life. I want the voice in your head to become your absolute biggest cheerleader. Talk yourself up the way you would talk up your best friend. Take some time to jot down the traits and accomplishments that got you where you are today. When you’re feeling unsure, lean on those to remind yourself how amazing you are!

I also want you to acknowledge now–in the beginning, when things are exciting–that you’re going to screw up. Because WE ALL SCREW UP. (Cough, especially men!) Missteps here and there don’t mean you can’t do this, or that you weren’t ready. It just means you’re learning and getting better. You are in for a really exciting journey and I am so thrilled for you!

Warmly, Caitlyn Macaluso

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Hello Mentee,

Ask yourself, “How would they know I do not have what it takes?” Only your “imposter” is telling you that, I bet. They do NOT know you’re making it up. (You may or may not be doing so.) Start by learning and asking questions of someone you respect and with whom you have trust. Pay careful attention to what that other person is saying and don’t scare yourself with a negative internal conversation.

Be your own cheerleader, not your critic!

Best of luck, Diane Dean

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Dear Mentee,

In 2021, prompted by a member discussion at Careers Over Coffee, Caroline Crawford and I hosted a WCA webinar on Imposter Syndrome. Themes from the webinar are summarized in this blog. I hope you find it helpful.

All the best, Jane Baxter Lynn

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Bonus Resource: From the Harvard Business Review, “You’re Not an Imposter. You’re Actually Pretty Amazing.”

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Got your own career conundrum you’d like advice on?

Then sign up for the WCA peer mentoring program. It’s free to members! [Mentee opportunities are also available to nonmembers through April 2025.]

Not ready to sign up yet? Submit your question to Ask a Peer Mentor. It’s all about peers who care about helping their fellow WCA members.

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Compiled and edited by Paige Booth