How can you overcome imposter syndrome in your career?

1 Recognize your triggers

Imposter syndrome can be triggered by various situations, such as starting a new project, receiving feedback, comparing yourself to others, or facing a challenge. To combat it, you need to identify what triggers it for you and how it manifests in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. For example, you might feel anxious, doubt your abilities, procrastinate, or avoid asking for help. By recognizing your triggers, you can prepare yourself to cope with them and challenge the negative thoughts that fuel your imposter syndrome.

2 Celebrate your achievements

One of the reasons why information architects may feel like imposters is that they often work behind the scenes and do not get enough recognition or appreciation for their work. They may also focus more on their mistakes and gaps than on their successes and strengths. To counter this, you need to celebrate your achievements and acknowledge your contributions to the project and the team. Keep a record of your accomplishments, such as positive feedback, awards, testimonials, or metrics. Review them regularly and share them with others when appropriate. This will help you boost your self-esteem and confidence.

3 Seek constructive feedback

Another way to overcome imposter syndrome is to seek constructive feedback from your peers, mentors, managers, or clients. Feedback can help you improve your skills, learn from your mistakes, and validate your work. However, you need to be careful not to take feedback personally or defensively. Instead, you should view it as an opportunity to grow and develop as an information architect. Ask for specific, actionable, and balanced feedback that highlights both your strengths and areas for improvement. Thank them for their feedback and implement it in your next steps.

4 Embrace learning and experimentation

Information architecture is a dynamic and evolving field that requires constant learning and experimentation. As an information architect, you may encounter new problems, technologies, or user needs that challenge your existing knowledge and skills. Instead of feeling overwhelmed or inadequate, you should embrace learning and experimentation as part of your professional growth. Adopt a growth mindset that sees challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. Seek out new resources, courses, or mentors that can help you expand your expertise. Experiment with different tools, methods, or solutions and learn from the outcomes.

5 Find your support network

Finally, one of the most effective ways to overcome imposter syndrome is to find your support network. This can be a group of people who share your interests, goals, or challenges as information architects. They can provide you with emotional support, encouragement, advice, or feedback. They can also help you realize that you are not alone in feeling like an imposter and that many others face similar struggles and doubts. You can find your support network through online communities, social media, events, or organizations related to information architecture. Connect with them regularly and share your experiences, insights, and questions.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?