Combating Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace

March 9, 2022

Imposter Syndrome is a disorder that may affect “high-achieving individuals who, despite their objective successes, fail to internalize their accomplishments and have persistent self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud or imposter.” and combating imposter syndrome in the workplace is paramount.

Imposter Syndrome is being discussed more frequently than ever by business Owners and Managers. Rightfully so, as Imposter syndrome can affect up to 82% of the population depending on recruiting tactics used.

Those effected by Imposter Syndrome may experience “increased levels of stress, burnout, and decreased performance and satisfaction over time” in their professional lives. With many firms struggling to hire employees due to “The Great Resignation” one thing is clear: Addressing and actively combating Imposter Syndrome in the workplace is imperative to retaining a fulfilled and healthy workforce.

Persistent feelings of Imposter Syndrome should be handled by a professional but there are simple techniques one can do to combat these feelings before they become a significant, daily issue on a basis:

Acknowledge The Issue

Problems do not get solved until they’re acknowledged. While some employees may be transparent about their struggles, those experiencing Imposter Syndrome may feel too vulnerable, embarrassed or anxious to allow to others know how they feel. Management can address and normalize these feelings with staff and encourage open dialogue, creating a safe place to ask for help.

Offer Career Advancement Opportunities

Perceived Organizational Support (POS) refers to the amount of support employee’s feel both in day-to-day operations and a company’s promise to provide avenues for growth opportunities. Increased POS show a strong, positive relationship with effective commitment, job satisfaction and was negatively related to turnover intentions . Offering clear opportunities for advancement provides reassurance to employees and their ongoing professional development.

Encourage Mentorships

While remote work has proven to have many upsides for both employees and employers, a noted downfall is the lack of organizational support felt. Encouraging employees to find a mentor or assigning one provides them with a resource for encouragement, constructive criticism, and a proven path to reach their professional goals.

Be Upfront with Expectations and Reviews

In the past, many managers resorted to using the compliment sandwich to end reviews on a positive note. While this is aimed at preserving the employee’s moral, it trains the employees to distrust praise, distracts from praise when it’s truly due, and may give employees a diluted or inaccurate understanding of their work performance. Reviews of your employees should be direct and actionable to minimize miscommunication.

Reframe YOUR Insecurity

If you’re dealing with Imposter Syndrome, one of the most effective exercises to subdue your anxieties is to practice Cognitive Reframing in order to establish a Redemptive Narrative. For example, if you’re surrounding yourself with intelligent and accomplished people, take a moment to be proud that you have positioned yourself to learn and grow with such a prestigious group.

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