14 February 2025
Imposter syndrome is more than just self-doubt—it is linked to severe challenges like depression, anxiety, burnout, and even low job satisfaction. It is a fear of being exposed as a fraud, even when there’s clear evidence of your abilities.
It is that inner doubt that tells you; you are not good enough, no matter how much you achieve. For instance, you might land a promotion but chalk it up to luck instead of recognising your hard work and skills. This mindset can chip away at your confidence and feed a cycle of self-doubt.
In this blog, UASA, in partnership with Lyra Health, explores into the crucial topic of imposter syndrome and how managers can play a pivotal role in helping employees overcome it. The cause of imposter syndrome can be diverse, influenced by a combination of personal tendencies and external factors:
Perfectionism: A strong need to meet unrealistic standards can create feelings of inadequacy. For example, imposter syndrome in the workplace can manifest as focusing on minor mistakes in a report despite high-quality work and praise. It can also lead to overworking, as individuals feel they need to constantly prove their worth.
Stereotypes: Social and cultural stereotypes and a lack of representation in leadership can amplify imposter syndrome at work. For instance, women working in science and technology might question their abilities in a male-dominated team despite their qualifications.
Managers hold a significant position in the battle against imposter syndrome at work. Their role in fostering psychological safety, offering support, and recognising contributions is vital in this fight.
Set clear expectations: Review deliverables, progress checkpoints, and performance measures. This will help employees know exactly what is expected and how they are performing. It can also help decrease the tendency to mentally “fill in the blanks” on what success looks like.
Lead by example: Openly acknowledge your mistakes and lessons learned to foster a culture where growth and learning are not just valued, but celebrated over perfection.
Acknowledge achievements: Highlight big and small wins and significant contributions, privately and publicly—pair recognition with actionable advice to build confidence.
Encourage input: Ensure all voices are heard. Invite all team members to participate in brainstorming sessions and give them the opportunity to share their perspectives.
Overcoming imposter syndrome in the workplace starts with small, intentional shifts in mindset and behaviour. With the proper support and consistent practice, employees and managers can foster self-confidence, unlock potential, and create a thriving workplace.
Lyra Health is a professional organisation that assists employees with professional health services through different stages. UASA encourages organisations and employers to prioritise their employees’ wellness to ensure they receive efficient support to help them overcome mental health challenges.
Ref: www.lyrahealth.com www.uasa.org.za