In this blog, I explore the psychological and career impact of imposter syndrome on women and share some top practical tips for tackling imposter syndrome.
Introduction
Imposter syndrome (or phenomenon as is its correct definition) is a term that continues to gain popularity, and I often hear clients stating that they have imposter syndrome but sometimes it’s just a case of self-doubt and limiting beliefs and there’s a distinct difference.
Imposter syndrome is the overwhelming feeling of self-doubt or unworthiness, where despite your achievements, you fear being exposed as a "fraud." For women, it often manifests as attributing success to luck or external factors, rather than their own abilities.
The Psychological & Career Impact of Imposter Syndrome on Women
Imposter syndrome can have far-reaching consequences on a woman's career, often holding you back from reaching your full potential. It influences confidence, decision-making, and career progression in various ways. Below are some key areas where imposter syndrome has a significant impact:
Lack of Confidence in Skills & Achievements
You often believe your success is due to luck rather than your own skills, hard work, and capabilities.
📌 Statistic: A 2019 study by KPMG found that 75% of female executives across industries have experienced imposter syndrome in their careers.
🔹 Career Impact
Hesitation in applying for promotions or new opportunities
Downplaying achievements or giving credit to external factors
Overworking to "prove" competence, leading to burnout
Fear of Speaking Up & Contributing
Self-doubt can make you hesitant to share ideas in meetings, ask questions, or challenge decisions, especially in male-dominated environments.
📌 Statistic: A 2022 HP study found that women apply for a job only if they meet 100% of the qualifications, while men apply when they meet just 60%. This highlights how self-doubt affects career advancement.
🔹 Career Impact:
Missed opportunities for visibility and leadership.
Underrepresentation in decision-making processes.
A perception of being less engaged or assertive, which may impact career growth.
Avoidance of Leadership Roles
You feel unqualified for leadership positions, even when you meet (or exceed) the qualifications.
📌 Statistic: A 2021 McKinsey & Lean In report found that women are less likely than men to be promoted to managerial positions, which contributes to the leadership gender gap. One of the key reasons cited - lack of self-confidence.
🔹 Career Impact:
Hesitation to negotiate salaries and promotions.
Declining leadership roles out of fear of failure.
Missing out on networking opportunities that could advance their careers.
Perfectionism & Overworking
You often compensate for self-doubt by overworking or setting unrealistic expectations for yourself.
📌 Statistic: According to research published in the Journal of Behavioural Science, 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, with women being more likely to struggle with perfectionism.
🔹 Career Impact:
Anxiety and stress from unrealistic self-expectations.
Burnout due to excessive workload and inability to delegate.
Difficulty in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Salary & Career Progression Disparities
You are less likely to negotiate for higher salaries or promotions, which contributes to the gender pay gap.
· 📌 Statistic: A LinkedIn report found that women are 26% less likely than men to ask for a raise and that those who do ask for 6% less money on average.
🔹 Career Impact:
Slower career progression compared to male counterparts
Acceptance of lower pay despite being equally (or more) qualified
Settling for roles that don’t align with their true potential
Increased Workplace Anxiety & Stress
The constant fear of being "found out" as an imposter can create anxiety and impact mental well-being. This may result in:
Emotional exhaustion, leading to decreased motivation and productivity
Increased self-criticism and reluctance to take risks
Greater susceptibility to workplace stress and dissatisfaction
Stories of Women Who Overcame Imposter Syndrome
📌 Real-World Examples:
Lack of Confidence in Skills & Achievements
Michelle Obama, former First Lady of the United States, has spoken openly about struggling with imposter syndrome, even after achieving success at Harvard and Princeton. She admitted that she often felt like she didn’t belong in elite spaces but learned to challenge those doubts by focusing on her work and impact.
Fear of Speaking Up & Contributing
Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta (Facebook) and author of Lean In, revealed that early in her career, she struggled with self-doubt and hesitated to speak up in meetings, even when she had valuable insights.
Avoidance of Leadership Roles
Maya Angelou, a world-renowned poet and author, once said:"I have written 11 books, but each time I think, ‘Uh-oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’”Even successful, accomplished women can struggle with imposter syndrome.
Perfectionism & Overworking
Tina Fey, comedian and former Saturday Night Live head writer, has admitted to struggling with imposter syndrome, despite winning multiple awards:"The beauty of the imposter syndrome is you vacillate between extreme egomania and a complete feeling of ‘I’m a fraud.’"
Salary & Career Progression Disparities
Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has spoken about feeling like an imposter despite her 23 Grand Slam titles. Women across industries, even at the highest levels, struggle to recognize their worth.
Breaking the cycle: How to combat these effects
Acknowledge & name It: Recognising imposter syndrome is the first step in overcoming it.
Seek mentorship & support: Having role models and mentors can provide guidance and reassurance.
Track accomplishments: Keeping a record of your achievements helps reinforce confidence in skills.
Adopt a Growth Mindset: Viewing challenges as learning experiences rather than threats can reduce your self-doubt.
Practice self-compassion: Accepting that nobody is perfect, and mistakes are part of growth can ease pressure.
Negotiate with confidence: Learn to advocate for yourself in salary negotiations and career discussions.
By addressing imposter syndrome, you can take control of your career trajectory, build self-confidence, and step into leadership roles without fear.
📝 Confidence-Building Exercises
✅ Leadership wins journal: Each week, document key decisions, wins, and challenges you’ve overcome. Recognising your growth builds self-trust.
✅ Reframe self-doubt exercise: When you think, “I’m not qualified for this,” reframe it as, “I bring unique insights and experience to this role.”
✅ Executive presence practice: Record yourself delivering a speech or presentation, watch it back, and refine your confidence and delivery.
✅ Mentorship & sponsorship: Build a circle of mentors and sponsors who can reinforce your leadership strengths.
🚀 Final Thought: You belong in the room (read that again)...
You didn’t get here by accident—you earned your leadership role. Every great leader experiences moments of doubt, but the difference is in how they handle it. Instead of questioning whether you belong, own your expertise, trust your abilities, and lead with confidence. 💪🔥
If this resonates with you and you'd like to break free from being held back from self-limiting beliefs and/or imposter syndrome, get in touch for initial no-obligation chat - 07791 863092 or at gemmahogan@talenta.me.uk
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