Imposter syndrome often manifests as self-doubt, fear of failure, and the belief that accomplishments are undeserved. Think of it as low professional self-esteem.
Why Take On Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling of inadequacy despite evidence of success. It affects countless individuals in the workplace, but without addressing it — you might never know. You may have many “diamonds in the rough” on your payroll, but if they’re too afraid to take steps to make themselves shine, your company will also struggle to reach new heights.
In the home product manufacturing industry, fostering a culture that addresses and overcomes imposter syndrome is crucial for individual well-being and overall organizational success.
Understanding Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome often manifests as self-doubt, fear of failure, and the belief that accomplishments are undeserved. Think of it as low professional self-esteem.
Here’s an example: An employee doesn’t propose any ideas in a brainstorming session, but later tells a great idea to one of their peers, who passes it along to their supervisor.
When it reaches you, you ask the employee, “Why didn’t you bring up this idea in our meeting? It’s brilliant!”
The employee might reply uncomfortably, “Oh, really? I didn’t think it would be good enough. I’m barely qualified to be in that meeting.”
Recognizing Imposter Syndrome
Promoting a Culture of Confidence
Leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping a culture that celebrates accomplishments. Model a culture that values confidence, resilience, and continuous growth.
Encourage employees to speak positively about themselves, emphasizing strengths and achievements. Confidence starts with an individual’s opinion of themselves.
Strengthening confidence in people betters their lives personally and professionally.
Encouraging Risk-Taking and Innovation
Minimize the fear of failure by facilitating an environment where minor risks are seen as learning opportunities.
Autonomy is powerful. Give employees a challenge. Maybe it’s asking for micro-changes that improve product quality. Encouraging employees to take small chances can build confidence and lead to breakthroughs you may not have ever considered. It won’t always work out. Not all ideas do. However, when an entire team takes up this mindset, you will see results!
Teach that “no” doesn’t mean “never,” but is rather an opportunity to reassess and improve.
Working up the courage to ask for something or propose a new idea is hard for some. Hearing “no” can be crushing and discourage employees from sharing in the future. Praise employees for taking the risk. Let them know you appreciate their initiative, give logic for not utilizing the idea, and encourage them to keep thinking and sharing ideas.
When people learn that “no” isn’t a total rejection of themselves, they become less afraid of trying. They’ll realize that there’s always another chance and that people don’t think less of them for not always scoring.
Help employees see the smaller, achievable steps between their current status and long-term goals.
Build the mindset that growth isn’t one giant leap. It’s a series of smaller steps. For example, someone with imposter syndrome may think, “I’m so far away from a management position. There’s no way I could ever achieve that.” In this case, you could work with them to create a plan that includes smaller, less daunting steps toward the path to management.
Providing Support and Resources
Offer resources, such as mentorship programs and counseling, to help employees combat imposter syndrome. Often, individuals need help to identify their limiting thought patterns before they can move forward.
Encourage employees to seek help when needed and express gratitude for their willingness to ask. Highlight that asking questions is a strength – it shows curiosity and an eagerness to improve. Let people know asking for help does not make them a burden.
Measuring Success
Evaluate the success of cultural changes by considering key performance indicators like employee engagement and satisfaction. If things aren’t working, try asking employees what you can do to make them feel more supported.
Adjust strategies based on results to refine the approach continually.
Praise people as they grow and gain confidence. But emphasize the distinction between results and character, reinforcing that setbacks don’t define an individual.
Your Next Steps
Creating a workplace free of imposter syndrome is a collective effort, and your role as a leader is pivotal in this journey.
Start by initiating open conversations about imposter syndrome, emphasizing that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Next, foster a positive culture by regularly acknowledging and celebrating individual and team achievements. Encourage calculated risk-taking, demonstrating that setbacks are growth opportunities.
Finally, provide accessible support and resources, ensuring that every team member feels empowered to seek help when needed.
Remember, the journey toward a confident and thriving workplace is ongoing. That means regularly assessing your company culture, soliciting feedback, and making adjustments as needed.
By taking intentional steps to combat imposter syndrome, you will enhance individual well-being and nurture an environment where every team member can contribute their best. Your commitment to creating a positive workplace will yield lasting benefits for your employees and your company’s overall success.
About the Author
Jason Otis is the president of Perk Brands and founder of Built for Home. Perk Brands is a digital marketing agency that partners with home product manufacturers to make their products easy to find and buy. Built for Home is a community of home product manufacturers and a resource for buyers to find products that make their lives better at home.
