Imposter Syndrome and how to reframe it.

So, where do we start? For me, burnout, a degree of perfectionism and “Imposter Syndrome” all formed part of the same problem. In my 20’s, I was frenetically taking on new roles with new responsibilities and promotions. On its own, it would have been overwhelming enough but with the backdrop of some tough family circumstances, the pressure was ridiculously high. This led to obsessing over aspects that I couldn’t control, feeling out of my depth in the roles I’d taken on but working twice as hard to prove myself as a result. I recently read an article on burnout that I could relate to. For me, burnout happened really slowly over a period of time and then really quickly. Like a switch being immediately and unapologetically, well…. “switched” ……

When I was 18 and one week into my university degree, I received a call that changed my life. I was expecting the usual dad chat, however dad quickly shared that what he thought was a hernia, was terminal cancer and there was no treatment that could be offered. With mum also receiving a cancer diagnosis several years on from that phone call, it was unsurprising that at 31 years of age, Imposter Syndrome and burnout hit me hard when they both passed away.

Throughout this time, I didn’t realise that my parent’s situation couldn’t be fixed, no matter how hard I tried. It was also a situation that profoundly shaped my outlook on life and what I notice and connect with now.

If we relate this to our professional lives, there can be many situations that feel overwhelming - for example managing a new promotion or juggling parenting responsibilities alongside a crazy work schedule. It’s understandable to forget what it feels like to not be the most experienced person in the room. One of the lessons I’ve learned along the way is that it’s absolutely critical to get sharp at noticing what you’re experiencing before the switch goes off. Our bodies and minds are incredible things. When either one isn’t happy, it tells you. Therefore, noticing and listening to these signals are key to minimising the stress and trying to understand what’s going on around you.

When negative thoughts and feelings about ourselves are pushing us around and calling the shots, what can we do differently and what support can we secure from our employers, managers and peers to bridge the gap between the two? Burnout isn't an individual problem. The systems and resources within organisations requires very close attention as burnout is on the rise and questions need to be answered as to why.

With burnout and Imposter Syndrome becoming a greater part of my career conversations with candidates, companies that provide a strong and caring people-centric culture are clearly winning the talent attraction race. Professionals understand the demands of working in an advisory environment and have had to adapt hugely to the blurred and sometimes confusing boundaries of working from home. In return, the leadership teams that check in and take meaningful action across a host of well-being initiatives, are the firms that people want to work for. Interestingly, whilst remuneration is always an important discussion point, different career drivers are placed more highly.

I’m wondering whether it would surprise clients to know that recognition, more resources, effective leadership with a clear vision and fulfilment tend to dominate my conversations with candidates.

If you’re a client wanting to engage strong talent into your teams but current employment strategies aren’t hitting the mark, please get in touch. Equally, if you’re a senior professional seeking a more fulfilling move from where you currently are then please contact me at [email protected]