How to manage imposter syndrome during your career transition

If you are going through a career transition it is quite likely you may have had doubts about your successes and how relevant they are in the modern job market or even how you will successfully move into a new role.  These feelings of self-doubt may emerge at any time during your career but are common when promoting yourself through your CV, during an interview or integrating into a new role. These feelings or self-doubt are often referred to as imposter syndrome.

What is imposter syndrome?

Impostor syndrome (also known as impostor phenomenon, impostorism, fraud syndrome or the impostor experience) is a psychological pattern in which an individual doubts their skills, talents, or accomplishments and has a persistent internalised fear of being exposed as a "fraud". Despite external evidence of their competence, those experiencing this phenomenon remain convinced that they are frauds and do not deserve all they have achieved. (Wikipedia). According to researcher Dr. Valerie Young, there are five impostor types

Whilst imposter syndrome may appear at any stage of your life, in this article I explore Dr Valerie Youngs 5 imposter types , how they may appear during a career transition and share some tips on reducing the fear.

5 Imposter Types

1. The Perfectionist – This imposter typically sets very high expectations for themselves.

During a career transition, a Perfectionist who lacks experience of interviewing may turn down interviews or worry that they won’t perform to the best of their ability as they aren’t ‘interview ready’. During an interview process, they may become frustrated if they are asked a question they haven’t prepared a response for, or if their answers don’t feel pitch perfect.

Tip -  Whilst it’s likely you will be asked a question during the interview that you hadn't anticipated, reading the job description and envisioning the scenarios you might face in that role can help you prepare for potential questions and increase confidence levels too. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t have a perfect response for every question; practice makes perfect and view the interview as a learning opportunity.

2. The Expert - This imposter feels they don't know everything there is to know about a particular subject or topic.

When job searching, Experts often focus on the elements of the job description they lack experience in and as a result may limit the number of applications they make because they don’t meet 100% of the criteria.

Tip - When deciding whether to apply for a job, aim to meet around 70-80% of the job description, especially the essential criteria requirements. Focus on the experience you have and where you can add value as opposed to where you can’t. Change your mindset and view any skills or experience gaps as opportunities for growth and explore ways to bridge those gaps through training.

3. The Soloist -  This imposter believes the only way to achieve is independently.

Soloists may try to tackle their job search independently and are afraid to ask for help during their career transition. You may feel like an imposter if you have to ask for help as you question your own competence or abilities of why you can’t achieve your next career move yourself.

Tip - Networking is one of the most underutilised methods when it comes to job searching and it is estimated a high number of vacancies aren’t advertised. Networking can take place online or in person and it doesn’t have to feel too formal. Make a list of people you know and trust who may be able to introduce you to recruiters, recommend job boards or just provide general advice and guidance.

4. The Natural Genius – This imposter doesn’t believe they are naturally intelligent or competent.

During a career transition, the Natural Genius may find it challenging to showcase achievements in their CV or confidently articulate their successes during an interview process.

Tip - Identifying achievements on your CV involves reflecting on your past experiences and responsibilities. Take the time to consider instances where you went above and beyond, added value or made a significant impact. This could include generating sales, improving efficiency or ensuring compliance. Reviewing performance evaluations or asking former colleagues for 360-degree feedback will help you to identify these accomplishments.

5. The Super Person - This imposter believes they must be the hardest worker or reach the highest levels of achievement possible.

During a job search, the Super Person may spend all their time trying to juggle their job search with other aspects of their life and as a result may end up burning out or feel hugely disappointed if their applications don’t result in interviews.

Tip – Rather than job searching harder, job search smarter. To become more productive with your career transition, manage your job search like you would manage your work diary and create yourself a schedule. Once you have established a schedule and are clear on the activities you will need to undertake, use time-blocking techniques to allocate specific blocks of time to different tasks. Factor in downtime too for relaxation and time outside.

Renovo is the UK’s leading specialist provider of outplacement support. We work with both organisations and individuals to support all their career transition requirements. If you would like to understand how Renovo can help, you please email info@renovo.co.uk