What It Is and How to Tackle It
Imposter syndrome is more common than you might think, and it doesn’t discriminate by job title, experience, or industry. It’s the quiet voice that tells professionals they’re not good enough, despite evidence to the contrary.
In the UK, 62% of adults have experienced imposter syndrome at work in the past year. Among younger professionals, the numbers are even higher:
- 86% of 18–34-year-olds report feeling like a fraud at work
- 75% of female executives say imposter syndrome has held them back
- 66% of Gen Z and 58% of Millennials experience it regularly
It’s not just a confidence issue; it’s a productivity and wellbeing concern. UK employees lose up to 10 full days of productivity per year due to imposter syndrome-related stress, and 12% of resignations are directly linked to it.
What Is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is the persistent belief that you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be. It often manifests as:
- Self-doubt
- Fear of being “found out”
- Difficulty accepting praise
- Overworking to “prove” worth
It can affect anyone from entry-level employees to senior leaders and is especially common during transitions, promotions, or new challenges.
Why It Matters in the Workplace
Imposter syndrome doesn’t just affect individuals; it impacts teams and organisations. It can lead to:
- Reduced productivity
- Burnout
- Missed opportunities
- Lower engagement and morale
- Increased turnover
In fact, 43% of UK professionals experience imposter syndrome weekly, and 72% say it’s held them back from pursuing growth or leadership opportunities.
Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
For Individuals:
- Recognise and reframe negative thoughts
- Track achievements to build confidence
- Talk about it, you’re not alone
- Seek feedback and mentorship
- Avoid perfectionism, progress matters more
For Employers and Managers:
- Create a culture of recognition
Celebrate wins and acknowledge contributions regularly. - Encourage open conversations
Make it safe to talk about self-doubt and mental wellbeing. - Offer mentorship and coaching
Help employees build confidence through support and guidance. - Train leaders to spot signs
Managers should be equipped to identify and support team members struggling with imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is a silent confidence killer but it’s also manageable. With the right support, individuals can thrive, and organisations can foster healthier, more resilient teams.
At Bond Williams, we understand the human side of recruitment. Whether you’re a professional navigating self-doubt or an employer building a supportive culture, we’re here to help.
