Here's how you can build confidence and conquer imposter syndrome in your role as a hospitality professional.

Don’t be afraid to share your experiences, training or background. Most employers know that you will bring more to the table than just what you are doing, but they won’t know unless you tell them. If you see an area where you can help given your experience, speak up. If you see a situation where your expertise would fix it, speak up. That is what a team player does. Someone who knows and does not say anything, to me, is not very useful.

Instead of just reflecting on past successes, create a "brag file." This is a digital or physical folder where you collect positive feedback, awards, testimonials, or any other evidence of your accomplishments. Refer to this file when you need a reminder of your value and expertise.

Goals are vital. Without them you have no direction / roadmap. Use the S.M.A.R.T. Methodology when setting goals for yourself and your team: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. When you don’t set goals, you are selling yourself and your team short.

Break down goals into smaller, manageable steps. This makes them feel less intimidating and allows for more frequent wins, boosting confidence and motivation.

I tell everyone that I work for that I can’t fix what I don’t know, and that feedback is vital for forward progress. I give feedback constantly, and I appreciate feedback when I get it. It’s the only way I know if I am heading in the right direction. The same is true for your team. Feedback allows them to chart where they are and then act accordingly.

Don't just wait for feedback; proactively seek it. Regularly ask your colleagues, supervisors, and guests for honest opinions on your performance. This demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow, which can help mitigate feelings of inadequacy.

In the your journey towards "slaying the dragon" that is impostor syndrome, you have to challenge yourself and force yourself outside of your comfort zone. When you conquer and embrace these different and newer challenges they feel that much more rewarding and aid in summiting the mountain of doubt as its more personally impactful what your doing embracing and attempting to tackle a new challenge and adding a new skill set or approach to your entrepreneurial tool belt. When you shy away from challenging tasks or hurdles to jump through to get to a new stage or heights as a hospitality professional it is a demoralizing blow to your internal confidence and healthy ego. It's not good for building you up in your journey to finding confidence.

Reframe challenges as learning opportunities. Instead of viewing difficult situations as threats to your competence, see them as chances to develop new skills and strengthen your abilities. This growth mindset can help you overcome imposter syndrome and build confidence in problem-solving.

You need to take time for yourself, or your team will suffer while you are suffering. You get days off…take them. You get vacation. Take it. Join a gym. Pray. Meditate. Whatever you need to do to take care of you. This is vital. If you don’t allow yourself to escape to your happy place, you’ll pay for it in the end, and so will your team and your employer.

Schedule self-care activities into your daily routine. Block off time for exercise, relaxation techniques, or hobbies. This ensures that you make time for your well-being, essential for maintaining a healthy perspective and combating self-doubt.

Be willing to teach others. You can’t do this forever, and the “next generation” needs to be able to step in when you are done. The only way this happens is when someone takes the time to train the next generation in those responsibilities. be willing to let them make mistakes under your watch…it is how they learn. You were not perfect when you were learning, so don’t expect too much. Remember that someone gave you an opportunity. Give someone else an opportunity as well.

Don't just mentor informally; create a structured program. Establish a formal mentorship program within your organization, pairing experienced professionals with newer staff members. This provides a valuable learning experience for both parties and reinforces the knowledge and skills of the mentors.

Challenge negative self-talk. When you notice yourself engaging in self-doubt, actively counter those thoughts with positive affirmations. For example, instead of thinking, "I'm not good enough," remind yourself of your past successes and your positive impact on your team and guests. Consider seeking professional support. If imposter syndrome is severely impacting your well-being or performance, consider talking to a therapist or counsellor who can help you develop coping mechanisms and build a more positive self-image.