Feeling like a fraud at work? You're not alone

Picture this scene: you’re tasked with delivering a presentation to your team about an upcoming project, detailing the requirements, timelines and objectives. You’ve prepped your notes, checked your figures, and maybe even thought of a joke or two to lighten the mood.  

Minutes before your colleagues start joining the call though, you start questioning whether you’re the right person to lead this project. Some of your teammates have more impressive degrees and qualifications, greater industry experience, or worse still, better jokes. And you’ve only been promoted mere months ago. 

If doubt-filled scenarios like this one sound familiar, the chances are you’re not alone. According to our Ireland Employment Trends – Spring 2025 Update, distilling insights from a survey of almost 750 Irish professionals, 65% have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their career, with more than one-in-five (22%) saying they’ve felt it often. 

But what exactly is imposter syndrome, and how can you stop self-doubt spiralling out of control? 

What is imposter syndrome? 

Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where individuals, despite evidence of success and competence, persistently doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as a ‘fraud’. Along with a constant sense of denial, imposter syndrome can cause a harmful cycle of perfectionism and overcompensation, potentially leading to burnout. 

You might think that feelings of inadequacy decrease with seniority, but often this isn’t the case: 45% of those we surveyed believe imposter syndrome became more frequent as they progressed in their career. Imposter syndrome can affect people at all levels, but for senior professionals with greater responsibilities and increased exposure, it could be even more debilitating.  

Overcoming imposter syndrome 

We’ve all heard the aphorism ‘fake it till you make’ it, but imposter syndrome can be an entrenched mindset that requires digging deeper beyond this surface level line. Getting the better of imposter syndrome isn’t simply about pretending; it’s about reflecting on yourself, confronting some hard truths, and perhaps most importantly, cutting yourself a break. 

However, with a change of mindset, it’s possible to show imposter syndrome the back door. Here’s some steps to get started: 

Unmasking imposter syndrome 

"I only got here through luck..."  

“I’m not as skilled as other people think I am…” 

“I can’t compete with my successor…” 

If thoughts like these constantly creep into your mind, it’s time to rewrite the script. When you experience self-doubt, or feel undeserving of your success, call it out as imposter syndrome. Remind yourself that these thought patterns are not reality, but only your interpretation of it. 

Know that nobody knows it all 

It can seem as though there’s more to know and learn in today’s constantly evolving world of work. And as you develop in your career, it’s tempting to think that you need to know everything in your field, or have an answer to every esoteric work question flung at you. 

You can’t be expected to know everything though, and it’s fine to not have a definitive solution to every question or challenge that you’re presented with. This doesn’t make you an imposter – it simply makes you human. Identifying any gaps in your knowledge, and building your expertise in response, is how you develop as a professional and a person. 

Celebrate your successes 

One of the best ways to overcome imposter syndrome is to replace fears with facts. Celebrate your wins and document them, whether it’s a simple email praising your work or a performance milestone backed by data. Remember, no win is too small to celebrate if it moves you forward and serves as an important reminder that you deserve to be where you are. 

Seek out a mentor 

Sometimes imposter syndrome can be exacerbated by isolation, giving room to those inner doubts that you’re somehow not good enough. However, having a mentor who can validate your capabilities, and provide some helpful constructive feedback, can be a huge confidence booster. This could be a senior leader within your organisation, or simply somebody you look up to and can learn from.  

Take solace that you’re not alone 

From intern to CEO, nobody is impervious to the anxiety and low self-esteem that can arise from imposter syndrome. While this might initially seem like a daunting prospect for your career, you should take solace in the fact that everybody faces moments of doubt; how you react to these invasive thoughts is what matters. 

By adjusting your mindset, you can help reframe negative feelings and become a more resilient professional. Recognise imposter syndrome for what it is, celebrate your successes, and embrace imperfection.  

So, the next time you’re prepping for that big presentation and questioning yourself, remember that you’ve got this, and your unique perspective is what makes you the right person for the job. We still can’t promise that your all jokes will land though… 

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