Here's how you can build confidence and conquer imposter syndrome in your Program Coordination role.

The first thing I did when I entered my role was read, learn, and listen. I took the time to learn course sequencing/prereqs, and student and faculty policies and truly learned something about each faculty I work with. I had to brush up on what was happening in the field and prepare for change, as so much of what we do is change. Take the time to learn about everything that you can and brush up on your people skills.

As a program coordinator, embracing a continuous learning mindset is essential for overcoming imposter syndrome. Recognize that it's okay to ask questions and seek guidance. Viewing each challenge as an opportunity for growth helps shift focus from fearing exposure to celebrating learning experiences. I contribute by installing complex solar systems, refining troubleshooting and project management skills with my mentor's guidance. This ongoing learning builds confidence and expertise.

It is absolutely essential before you start to accept the following; There will always be "a wall" between you and floor staff . viz Management / Worker, You must during contacts show that this wall doesn't exist. it is only the point of view of position where you are standing. Advise worker that without training and support you couldn't give effect to their position. If they say that's not right. offer them to train you to do their job for an afternoon and you will train them why you wish to engage with each of them and while you are doing their job allow them to spread your message of wishing to engage with individuals. Be prepared there will always be two or three with an Agenda who attempt to get an afternoon off and challenge you.

Setting achievable goals is essential for building confidence in your program coordination role. Start with small, manageable objectives that contribute to the bigger picture. Each time you meet a goal, it serves as concrete evidence of your abilities and diminishes feelings of inadequacy. This practice not only helps in tracking progress but also reinforces your belief in your own competence.

It's important to acknowledge and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. As a program coordinator, you're often juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities. Taking the time to reflect on what you've accomplished reinforces your capabilities and helps combat imposter syndrome. Recognizing your achievements is not bragging; it's an essential part of building self-confidence.

Seeking feedback is essential in reducing blind spots during a program or project’s life cycle. It helps to refine our internal compass when treading new pathways so that we can pivot fluidly and faster if needed. Of course, always remembering to be mindful of the source. The cleaner the glasses , the clearer the vision.

One gift of building networks in addition to the support gained is recognizing what you bring to the relationship as well. By understanding why we are seeking the time and energy of this (colleague, mentor, peer, friend, etc)? We begin to be more conscious of creating supportive networks that validate our learning journey and also stretch us, to grow and elevate our skills.

Sometimes when we are in a cycle of tasks and deadlines, it is easy overlook our successes (however they may be defined). Evaluating either the quantifiable aspects of progress; for example when studying this may be grades received for coursework/exams and the qualitative aspects; such as growth in self confidence, feeling knowledgeable etc, or both provide the connection to realising that you have the knowledge and experience for your role. Connecting to the root of why you feel this way is important. For example, is it because you were conditioned to feel this way by care givers, have you experienced being undermined or devalued in the workplace, what does praise/success look like to you? Is there a pressure to be perfect?

This is one of the most important parts of program leading/coordination. Always leave space in the schedule or workflow for reflection/debrief. It’s a needed pause to assess the project or program’s growth edges (and our own) . What needs to change, added, or simply let go? In asking ourselves these reflective questions, we keep the mind fresh and malleable-open for opportunity.

One thing I have found to be helpful is being a mentor. Sharing the knowledge, skills, and experience you've gained helps you to see the value you add. Mentorship isn't always about the mentee gaining something, but also the mentor getting to verbalize or reaffirm to themselves that they do indeed "know their stuff!"