How to stop The Imposter Gang from holding you back

Breaking news alert. Reports are coming in of three scammers that are on the run in your mind. Authorities have tagged them ‘The Imposter Gang'.

They’re playing havoc with your career. Let’s take a closer look at who they are.

First up, there’s The Fake. He loves nothing more than telling you that you don't belong in this meeting. Your colleagues are way smarter. You, you're just a fraud. Keep your head down and your mouth shut and you just might get away with it. 

Next up, Miss Lucky. She takes great pleasure in pointing out what you have achieved was a fluke. Your success has absolutely nothing to do with your talent, skills, knowledge or dedication. Pure luck, that’s what did it. You chancer. 

Last, but by no means least, is Dr Discount. Can you hear those lethal whispers? Your colleagues were full of praise afterwards for that presentation you just gave. But they’re just saying that to make you feel better, aren’t they? They’ll be criticising you behind your back, for sure, in the pub after work. 

The big question is, aren't you sick of them hijacking your career? 

Maybe it’s time to reign them in and take back control. It’ll be easier than you think. You can start by channelling your inner DI Jane Tennison. Sherlock Holmes. Poirot. Luther. Or any detective of your choice.

Clear your schedule for a couple of hours. There’s a lot of investigative work to do. Grab a pen and some post-its.

You’re going to build your own crime scene wall, like the ones you see on those TV crime dramas. Think about the mountain of evidence you have in your possession that proves that the words of The Imposter Gang are wrong.

Write down and post on the wall the following:

• your career highlights, like promotions, achievements, awards or getting a new job
• your experience, qualifications and training
• testimonials from your clients or customers
• positive feedback from managers and colleagues
• your strengths (the attributes you showed that earned you the testimonials and feedback; your contributions to successful projects)
• your skills and specialist knowledge
• anything else that makes you feel good about your career to date

Now take a deep breath and step back.

Review the case through fresh eyes.

What do you see in front of you on the wall?

Maybe ask for a second opinion. A friend or close colleague. 

What does the other person see too?

That the Imposter Gang themselves are just a bunch of frauds?

That there is insurmountable evidence that they are wrong?

Just look at the highlights of an impressive career, testimonials, positive feedback, strengths, skills, knowledge and more!

OK. It’s time to reach a verdict. Are you really not up to the job?

The truth is staring you in the face. You’ve been more than good enough all along. You really have got this. 

Take a photo of your wall in case of future wobbles. Use it to remind you of this: the Imposter Gang are, well, just imposters. You’re the real deal.