Your client is battling imposter syndrome during a career shift. How can you guide them towards success?

I try and focus on what small things little by little can be changed to reduce imposter syndrome as a result rather than going at it directly. Also talking through what the triggers are and then exploring why. I found some excellent information splitting the cause into 5 different types of IS. this then helped client tie up their triggers and identify the type they have. Understanding it is a breakthrough for many and IS seldom relates to something lacking in themselves it’s actually their perception and version of the truth.

We really live in an era of compare and despair and I do not mean that to come across as negative, it is merely informative. Everywhere we turn we see a personal brand evolve, the pace of social media does not always depict the time or behind the scenes effort that went into the portrayed growth. Tapping into a clients inherent strengths, values and personal vision can be anchors of alignment and authenticity and true self recognition.

I've found it helpful to help clients understand how imposter syndrome can be rooted in fear or trauma that occurred in the past. By doing a full assessment up front of historical data pertaining to the client, we can help them identify trends leading to the development of imposter syndrome. The more knowledge we can give our clients about imposter syndrome, the looser it's grip on the client becomes.

To guide a client battling imposter syndrome during a career shift, start by helping them understand what imposter syndrome is and how it affects them. Explain that it’s a common experience where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a "fraud," despite evidence of their competence. By providing context and normalizing these feelings, you help them recognize that these doubts are not a reflection of their abilities but a challenge many face during significant changes. This understanding can reduce the stigma and empower them to address these feelings more constructively.

Validating your client's feelings is essential. It makes them feel heard and accepted which offers a roadway for them to comfortably share more of their concerns, doubts and fears. It's important to help your client recognize that this can change. Be encouraging and truly listen to what they believe stands in their way. Have your clients acknowledge and articulate prior areas of growth and even their small successes. They can build upon what came before to gain more confidence in their abilities and their self-worth.

Validating your client’s feelings is crucial in addressing imposter syndrome. Acknowledge their concerns and reassure them that experiencing self-doubt is a natural part of transitioning to a new career. Listen empathetically to their fears and affirm that their feelings are valid but do not define their worth or capabilities. By providing this emotional support, you help them feel understood and less isolated, creating a foundation for them to build confidence and overcome the internal barriers holding them back.

There is a specific type of goal that suits this situation so well! Suits as in will help a client mover forward in a way that works for then right now and meets them exactly where they are , a SMART goal. A smart goal is: SPECIFIC MEASURABLE ACHIEVABLE REALISTIC TIME BOUND Which helps keep things approachable and more clearly points out "wins" which can be highly encouraging and lead to the next best step to take.

When guiding a client battling imposter syndrome during a career shift, emphasise fostering a growth mindset. A career shift inherently involves learning and adapting to a new environment, which can be uncomfortable but is crucial for growth. Remind them that learning doesn’t mean doing things perfectly. Perfection is often tied to repeating what they already know. Encourage them to view every outcome as a valuable data point for future improvement. Embracing discomfort is key to effective learning, and it doesn't signify being an imposter. Instead it signifies that they are growing and evolving into their new role.

Support is everything. And the surprising thing is that more often than not, people actual want to help you. And even though they care about you, they may not know that you need help unless you ask them. Supporting someone who asks you for help boosts your confidence too. And the exchange fosters a deeper connection for those involved. Perhaps it might encourage you to know that if you by asking for help you are also providing it.

Encourage your client to cultivate a supportive network to combat imposter syndrome effectively. Suggest connecting with mentors, colleagues, or professional groups who can provide encouragement, share their own experiences, and offer constructive feedback. A strong support network helps to counteract self-doubt by reinforcing the client’s skills and achievements through external validation. Regular interactions with supportive individuals can provide motivation and perspective, helping the client navigate their career shift with increased confidence and resilience.

A helpful reflection for me is to ask myself - how do I benefit from the pain I put myself through? From there is the opportunity to flip the perspective and narrative and an opening to look for healthier ways to address the pain/gain relationship we have with ourselves. I like to ask clients this question to once they have acknowledged their pain.

I dare say everyone feels or has felt like an imposter at one point or another. What I like to advice is do a SWOT analysis on your value and play more to your strength. Need a more indepth approach? Book a discovery call through my profile today.