How to Turn Imposter Syndrome into Career Fuel

Many of us tend to doubt our professional competence. We question our skills, feel we are not good enough at what we do, and worry that we will not live up to the expectations of our boss and team.

One of the polls in the USA showedthat 65% of employees suffer from "Imposter Syndrome" - the belief that they are not as good at their jobs as others think they are. The data also show that women are more likely to have such doubts than men.

According to another survey, “Imposter Syndrome” is characteristic of employees at any level - 41% of vice presidents of companies believe that they are not competent enough for their position.

In other words, there is nothing to be ashamed of in the "Imposter Syndrome". It is much more common than we think. And although this state may seem paralyzing, it can be used to achieve success at work and become a better person. Here are two ways to do it.

1. Promise less, deliver more

Jobs are filled with people who are good only in words, not in deeds. Such overconfident employees usually produce mediocre results. And this harms not only their reputation, but also their career prospects.

The good news is that the person who is struggling with "Imposter Syndrome" is most likely already on the right track. Unlike overconfident employees, those who doubt themselves are much more likely to surprise themselves and their bosses with high quality work. They tend to promise less and deliver more.

One small experiment showedthat the element of surprise has a positive effect on relationships between people. The scientists asked the waiters in the restaurant, where mints were included with the check, to also give visitors one or two chocolates. They could warn customers about an extra treat or arrange a surprise. As a result, visitors who unexpectedly received a second chocolate bar left the most generous tips. They were followed by those who, without warning, received the first chocolate bar.

The next time you are assigned a new task or project, try to take a hard look at your skills in relation to the job that is expected of you. Ask a colleague you trust to help you if you want to get a more objective result. You need to divide your skills into three categories:

• what you already know and can do;
• what you are sure that you will be able to master and apply;
• what do you think you could learn and apply.

Take full responsibility for the first category of skills, and don't promise less for tasks that require them. On the other hand, when working on projects that require the other two categories of skills, promising less is perfectly normal and even useful. Especially when you manage to achieve more than you thought.

2. Use interpersonal skills

People with "Imposter Syndrome" often practice an others-centered approach to work. In one study, psychologists establishedthat feelings of inadequacy encourage people to use a more personal style when communicating with colleagues and clients.

It is not enough for an ambitious professional to be the best at what he does. Building relationships with those you work with and those you report to is just as important for your career advancement.

Discuss your "Imposter Syndrome" with colleagues if you think they are experiencing the same thing. An honest conversation about the issues that are bothering you will take the weight off your shoulders. In addition, you can help another person who is overcome by the same doubts.

"Imposter Syndrome" rarely becomes the subject of open discussion. All because of the shame associated with the feeling of incompetence. However, it is important to understand that these negative beliefs are often unfounded. Keep learning more about what you are capable of and keep improving your skills. Remember that your colleagues may feel the same, and support them in the way you would like to be supported.