How To Spot Imposter Syndrome In Employees

What an executive coach can reveal about these warning signs…

Impostor syndrome is a form of cognitive dissonance that makes those who suffer from it feel like a fraud, even though their abilities could prove otherwise.

Those who experience imposter syndrome tend to attribute their success more to luck than skill and live in fear of this “luck” eluding them.

I've seen leaders struggle with this firsthand in my leadership coaching sessions, and it's saddening to see competent employees succumb to the irrational yet crippling pattern of self-doubt.

Leaders might be left reeling from the impact that imposter syndrome can have if their team members are facing it. But it takes real leaders to proactively look out for warning signs and address them before it has the chance to escalate.

What are the signs?

Because employees suffering from imposter syndrome are unlikely to bring it up, it can be challenging to address the issue. However, your leadership can play a massive part in helping your team members overcome imposter syndrome.

But before you can support your employees, you must learn how imposter syndrome manifests itself. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:

They don’t take compliments well

People afflicted by imposter syndrome tend to reject praise because they feel undeserving — like frauds. 

This is different from someone who's humble and only deflects compliments because they don't want to seem arrogant. People with imposter syndrome feel like they're just pretending to be good at their job, so when people compliment them, it makes them feel uncomfortable.

They are hesitant to take on new tasks and responsibilities

If an employee thinks they're only in their position due to luck or other people's help, they may not want to take on new tasks out of fear that they don't have what it takes.

While it is normal for anyone to feel varying levels of hesitation when presented with new challenges, an employee with imposter syndrome may feel stricken with panic when asked to take on new tasks. This can lead to procrastination, missed deadlines, and even quitting the job altogether.

They become irritable if asked about their progress at work

Employees with imposter syndrome often feel like they're under a microscope and that everyone is watching them. 

When people feel as if they're constantly being watched and judged, they can become stressed and anxious. This anxiety often makes them lash out in exasperation when they are questioned about their work or performance. 

An innocent question such as "How is your project going?" can set off a whole chain of negative thoughts and emotions, which could result in an irritable response.

Which kind of leader are you?

Now that you know the warning signs, you might see imposter syndrome on display in the behaviours of your team members.

The question is: which kind of leader do you want to be?

Will you turn a blind eye and hope against hope that it will not affect your performance and bottom line? Or will you step in to support your team members who suffer from it?

As an executive coach in Singapore, I’ve realised that few leaders are actually aware of how to deal with employees who face imposter syndrome. Many have turned to leadership coaching to help them help their employees.

So if you want to prepare yourself for such a scenario, begin your executive coaching journey with me now!