Your Imposter Phenomenon toolkit: How to contend with ‘imposterism’ at work and support your team

Imposter Phenomenon is a complex topic, and one that sometimes gets glossed over in the business world. This toolkit is a learning and advice resource for managers, recruiters and HR specialists – whether you want to understand more about your personal Imposter feelings, the underlying causes, or want to better support members of your team.

Since February 2019, Totaljobs has delved into the nuances of Imposter Phenomenon in the workplace, alongside Dr Terri Simpkin, Associate Professor at University of Nottingham and Visiting Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University, and Kate Atkin MSc, Professional speaker, facilitator and researcher.

Delve into the research and look at the insights gathered from over 2,000 candidates before and after the Covid-19 pandemic, plus tips for employers, managers and interviewers on how to support someone experiencing Imposter feelings.

To hear from experts Dr Terri and Kate Atkin, along with actionable solutions for businesses from Totaljobs’ Steven Nicholson, take a look at the webinar recording. This includes additional commentary from Global Managing Director at Alexander Mann Solutions, Janine Chidlow.

What is Imposter Phenomenon?

Imposter phenomenon is the persistent feeling of self-doubt and fear of being exposed as less capable than others perceive you to be. It affects people across all roles and levels, often leading to stress, burnout, and holding back from opportunities. Learn more in the resources below.

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What is Imposter Phenomenon and how does it affect us?

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What impact did we see from Covid-19?

During Covid-19, imposter feelings eased for many as remote work reduced daily comparisons. But they rose sharply among furloughed workers, younger employees and parents balancing extra pressures. Read more below.

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Imposter Phenomenon in the age of Covid-19

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How can managers tackle Imposter Phenomenon in their teams?

Managers can help tackle imposter phenomenon by setting clear expectations, offering specific feedback, encouraging mentoring, and creating psychological safety.

To learn more, explore the article below and watch our on-demand webinar with researchers Dr Terri Simpkin and Kate Atkin MSc, alongside Totaljobs’ Steven Nicholson, for practical tips on supporting employees.

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Tackling Imposter Phenomenon in your workplace

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Webinar tip

On-demand webinar and slides: Tackle Imposter Phenomenon in your workplace

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Expert FAQ with Dr Terri Simpkin and Kate Atkin

In their follow-up article, Dr Terri Simpkin and Kate Atkin answer your burning questions about Imposter Phenomenon – debunking myths, exploring how context and identity influence the experience, and offering realistic, evidence-based tips for managing self-doubt and rebuilding confidence

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Dr Terri Simpkin and Kate Atkin tackle your burning Imposter Phenomenon questions

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Want more?

5 myths about imposter syndrome  – Kate Atkin

The imposter phenomenon and the toll it takes on women in the workplace – Dr Terri Simpkin