Picture this: You’ve been asked to present an important project update to your team. You’ve done your homework, organised your talking points, double-checked the figures, and maybe even lined up a light-hearted icebreaker. But just before the meeting starts, you’re hit with an unsettling wave of doubt.
“Am I really the right person to lead this?”
“Others on the team have more experience or higher qualifications.”
“What if they see through me?”
If that inner monologue sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
A huge number of professionals have reported experiencing imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. More than one in five said it happens regularly.
But what exactly is imposter syndrome, and more importantly, how can professionals overcome it?
In fast-paced, knowledge-driven industries, the pressure to constantly “prove your worth” can amplify self-doubt.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome refers to the internal belief that your achievements are undeserved and that you’ve somehow fooled others into thinking you’re more competent than you really are. Despite evidence of success, individuals experiencing imposter syndrome often feel like frauds and live in constant fear of being “found out.”
It often shows up as:
- Perfectionism and overpreparation
- Reluctance to accept praise
- Fear of failure and rejection
- Comparing yourself unfavourably to colleagues
Surprisingly, it doesn’t just affect early-career professionals. Imposter syndrome even affects people as they move up the career ladder.
Why Do Professionals Experience It?
There are several triggers:
- Career transitions, like promotions or role changes
- Working in high-achieving environments
- Lack of representation in leadership or specialist roles
- Remote work which can isolate professionals from supportive feedback
Even high performers, including leaders in sectors like life sciences, engineering, and tech, are vulnerable. In fast-paced, knowledge-driven industries, the pressure to constantly “prove your worth” can amplify self-doubt.
Practical Steps to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
- Name It, Claim It
- Recognise your internal dialogue for what it is: a distorted perception, not reality. Statements like “I just got lucky” or “I’m not as good as they think” are classic imposter narratives. Call them out. Reframe them with evidence of your skills and accomplishments.
- Accept That No One Knows Everything
- Professionals often feel they must have all the answers, especially when stepping into leadership roles. But asking questions, seeking input, and admitting gaps in knowledge shows maturity, not weakness. Lifelong learning is a strength, not a shortcoming.
- Document Your Wins
- Keep a “success file”, a folder of positive feedback, project outcomes, or client testimonials. When doubt creeps in, revisit your documented impact. No win is too small. Every step forward validates your journey.
- Find a Mentor or Peer Coach
- A trusted mentor can offer perspective, guidance, and encouragement. They’ve likely faced the same doubts. Learning how others manage their inner critic can give you tools to silence your own.
- Stop Comparing
- Your path is unique. Comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel, especially on social media or in fast-growing industries, can be toxic. Focus on progress over perfection.
- Normalise the Conversation
- Imposter syndrome is common across industries, from healthcare to finance to construction. Talking about it openly, whether with peers or a manager, helps dismantle the shame that often surrounds it.
- Set Realistic Expectations
- It’s okay to make mistakes, to ask for help, and not to get everything right the first time. Striving for excellence doesn’t mean striving for perfection.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re stepping into a new role, presenting to a board, or just navigating daily responsibilities, imposter syndrome can cast a long shadow over your confidence. But with self-awareness and practical tools, you can shift from feeling like a fraud to owning your achievements.
At PE Global, we support professionals at every stage of their journey. We understand that success isn’t just about qualifications or experience, it’s about mindset, growth, and the courage to show up fully.
So, the next time you’re preparing for that high-stakes meeting and start to question your ability, remind yourself: You’re not here by accident. You’ve earned your place.
