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The imposter syndrome phenomena was discovered as recently as the 1970s. Never heard of it? Well, it is actually quite common! According to the latest research, as many as 70 percent of people are influenced by it. Individuals with imposter syndrome describe feelings of fear that others will eventually unmask them as a fraud or a fake. As per FastCompany, “[Imposter syndrome] is a feeling where deep down, you can’t believe that you deserve the job, title or career that you’ve landed.” So, how does imposter syndrome affect experienced professionals who have decided to switch careers, and how can they manage it? Changing careers, especially after 10 or 20 years in the same industry (as our clients Crys, Victor and Cheryl have done) can be challenging. It is perfectly normal to experience slight feelings of self-doubt, however, there are multiple ways to manage these feelings and continue to be and feel successful in your chosen profession!

One of the best ways to manage feelings of imposter syndrome when entering a new career is to realize and accept that you are learning! As per the Harvard Business Review, there are many benefits to being a novice in a new field, “When you are not steeped in the conventional wisdom of a given profession, you can ask questions that haven’t been asked before or approach problems in ways others haven’t thought of.” You have an outsider’s perspective, and that’s an amazing asset!

Another tactic is to write down all your accomplishments! Yes, all of them, and yes, even the small ones (like making it to work on time). The Muse recommends creating an accomplishments box to “embrace the fact that you got yourself where you are.” You’re not a fraud, you’ve worked hard to achieve your career dreams!

If you’re looking to switch careers, our career coaches are here to help! Click here or give us a call at 855.944.8300 to get started today!