What Is Imposter Syndrome At Work? Imposter Syndrome New Job Advice

In this article, we answer the common query – what is imposter syndrome at work? We also explore why it’s so common especially in a new job and provide actionable tips on how to deal with imposter syndrome at work.

Starting a new job is an exciting milestone in your career. It opens up new opportunities, challenges, and learning experiences.

However, with these new beginnings often come feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. If you find yourself questioning your abilities or feeling like you don’t belong in your new position, you’re not alone.

These feelings have links to psychological behaviour called imposter syndrome. According to the British Medical Association (BMA), imposter syndrome is “a feeling of inadequacy that persists despite evidence of success”.

Research from YouGov found that 66% of Britons find it difficult to accept compliments and praise, with 57% criticising themselves more than others do.

People with impostor syndrome often have corresponding mental health issues, but the imposter phenomenon is not a formal mental disorder, studies show.

What is imposter syndrome at work?

Imposter syndrome is particularly common in the workplace, where people often struggle to internalise their success and feel undeserving of their achievements.

• It often feels like you’re doubting your accomplishments and skills, with perhaps fears of your peers seeing them as a “fraud” despite clear evidence of your ability. 
• Imposter syndrome can manifest as an overwhelming sense of inadequacy – you might believe that you were simply lucky in landing your job or that you don’t have the talent or experience that others believe you do.
• This can result in feelings of anxiety, self-doubt and self-awareness, especially when you’re surrounded by high-achieving colleagues.
• Importantly, imposter syndrome can affect anyone, regardless of their position or level of experience.

Even highly successful individuals can experience it, which is why recognising the symptoms is crucial for addressing and overcoming imposter syndrome. New jobs can make you feel imposter syndrome even more acutely.

Why is workplace imposter syndrome so common?

Imposter syndrome is often particularly prominent when starting a new job.

• This period of transition brings many challenges and unfamiliar situations that can heighten feelings of self-doubt.
• Whether you’re transitioning to a completely new role or stepping up to a more senior position, there’s an adjustment period that requires you to prove yourself.
• In these early days, it’s easy to feel like everyone around you is more capable and confident, leaving you with the belief that you don’t belong.
• However, it’s important to recognise that these feelings are a natural part of adjusting to a new job. 
• Joining a new workplace with new expectations, new colleagues and new responsibilities can feel overwhelming.

The pressure to perform well can amplify self-doubt, and before long, you might start to question whether you’re up to the task.

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The link between a new job and imposter syndrome

When you begin a new role, you are faced with new expectations, unfamiliar tasks and a learning curve that can feel daunting.

• If you struggle to meet those expectations, even if it’s only temporary, you might start to feel like you’re failing.
• This triggers imposter syndrome, as you mistakenly equate your initial struggle with incompetence.
• What’s often overlooked is that every new job comes with an adjustment period, and feeling uncertain is part of the process.
• You may compare yourself to your new colleagues, who might seem more confident and experienced. 

But remember, what you see on the surface doesn’t always reflect the internal struggles of others.

Many of your colleagues may have felt just as uncertain when they started. The key is recognising that these feelings are part of the transition and will fade as you become more comfortable in your new role.

Here is our guide on office etiquette for new employees.

How to handle imposter syndrome new job challenges

To maintain your mental health and thrive in a new role, take some time to work out how to deal with imposter syndrome at work in a way that makes sense for you.

While the feelings of self-doubt may not completely disappear, there are practical steps you can take to mitigate their impact and combat imposter syndrome

1. Acknowledge and accept your feelings

The first step to overcoming impostor syndrome is to acknowledge it.

• Recognising that you are experiencing imposter syndrome is empowering because it allows you to separate these feelings from reality.
• Remember that you are not alone – many people, especially in new job settings, experience similar feelings.

Acknowledging your emotions can be liberating, as it helps you realise that imposter syndrome is a psychological experience, not a reflection of your abilities.

2. Reframe your thinking

Instead of focusing on what you feel you lack, try to focus on your achievements.

• When imposter syndrome creeps in, remind yourself of the reasons you were hired in the first place.
• Reflect on the skills and experiences that led to your role – Your employer chose you for a reason, they value your talents and experience.
• When you start to have negative thoughts, such as “I don’t belong here,” or “I’m not good enough,” challenge these beliefs.

Ask yourself whether you would think the same about a colleague. If the answer is no, then you are likely being too hard on yourself.

3. Seek constructive feedback

One of the most effective ways to deal with imposter syndrome is by seeking feedback from your manager or colleagues. Here are the best peer review feedback questions.

• Feedback provides an external perspective on your performance and can reassure you that you are meeting expectations.
• Constructive feedback helps you focus on areas for growth while also highlighting your strengths and successes.
• A positive, objective assessment of your work can help counter feelings of inadequacy.
• If you get positive feedback, it reinforces the fact that you are capable and that your contributions are valued.

If there are areas for improvement, see them as opportunities to learn, not as evidence that you don’t belong.

4. Embrace the learning process

Imposter syndrome often arises when you expect to be perfect right from the start. However, no one can expect to master every aspect of a new role immediately.

• When you encounter a challenge, treat it as part of the learning process.
• Mistakes are inevitable, but they don’t make you a failure—they make you human.
• In fact, facing challenges and overcoming them is a great way to build self-confidence.

Every small success, whether it’s mastering a new software program or successfully managing a task, reinforces your competence.

5. Build a support network

Building relationships with colleagues can help combat the isolation that often accompanies imposter syndrome.

• Having a support network at work can provide encouragement and perspective.
• Often, talking to others who have been in your position can help you realise that they, too, felt like imposters when they first started.
• A mentor or a trusted colleague can be an invaluable resource for advice and reassurance. 

Line managers or other mentors could help you work through and overcome challenges, offering practical advice on how to succeed in your new role.

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6. Set realistic expectations

It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself.

• Give yourself the time and space to adjust to your new role.
• Setting small, manageable goals for each day or week can help you track your progress and avoid overwhelming yourself with expectations that are too high.

Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and recognise that perfection is not the goal—progress is.

7. Practice self-compassion

Be kind to yourself.

• Practice self-compassion and acknowledge that it’s okay to feel unsure at times.
• You’re learning and growing, and this process takes time.

Treat yourself the way you would treat a colleague who is struggling. Offer yourself the same encouragement and understanding.

Final thoughts: Moving beyond imposter syndrome in the workplace

Imposter syndrome is a common challenge in the workplace, especially when starting a new job. Left unchecked, it can challenge your mental wellbeing, cause low self esteem, lead to a very isolating feeling and more.

Remember, feeling like an imposter is a temporary phase that will pass as you settle into your new role.

The more you learn, grow, and prove to yourself that you belong, the less power imposter syndrome will have over you.

The feeling of imposter syndrome can also arise before, during and after interviews which are nervous experiences for many of us. Here’s how to calm interview nerves.

But help is at hand – here at PurpleCV we offer dedicated 1:1 interview coaching to help you prepare calmly and confidently. Check out our accessories page for more details.

Here’s how to know if an interview went well. And pre-interview, writing a CV is also not the time to let imposter syndrome get the better of you.

Our professional CV writing service makes sure you don’t downplay your achievements – our writers know the right way to showcase your skills and success stories. For any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact us.