You can’t be an imposter if you’re just being you

“You can’t be an imposter if you’re just being you”.

This is something that Hannah, my boss, frequently says. It’s something I’ve needed to hear in the last few years, as I finished my studies and began my career. It can be scary entering the world of work, which seems so slick and intimidating when you’re 21.

At times, I certainly felt like an imposter, especially feeling like I wasn’t polished, knowledgeable or experienced enough to be working in my job. When I inevitably made mistakes, it felt like a huge personal failure, leaving my confidence diminished.

And I’m not alone; some studies show that around 70% of young women have experienced feelings of imposter syndrome in their work.

This is why conversations, like this panel, are so vital for young women to be exposed to. 

Hearing that Ruth and Rebecca, experienced women who are slightly later on in their careers, have had similar experiences was deeply reassuring. They spoke honestly about beliefs that they have had to unlearn and advice that they would give their younger self about speaking up and backing themselves. 

What struck me most was the collective belief that they both wished they’d been more confident earlier in their careers. They reflected that they’d tell their younger selves that they don’t have to have everything perfectly figured out, but instead that they’d say ‘yes’ and step out into new opportunities.

From there, their abilities, and in turn, confidence grew. It was a great reminder from two incredible women to let go of self-limiting beliefs, to reduce the power of what others think, and to grasp opportunities that may feel daunting at the time.

Similarly, Dani’s reflections on what she would tell her younger self also resonated with me. One belief she had to unlearn early in her career was that a bad day doesn’t mean you’re bad at your job.

This is such an important insight for young women. Girlguiding UK found that a quarter of seven-to 10-year-old girls felt the need to be perfect - these are girls who will be in the workforce in a few short years. 

Another great reminder from the panel was to surround yourself with the right people. All three women spoke about the importance of building your network and creating a supportive community.

As I reflect on the first few years of my career, I’m deeply grateful to be surrounded by supportive women who cheer me on. It reminded me of Hannah (mentioned earlier), who speaks often about discovering your strengths, your values and in turn, who you’re made to be.

I’ve since been reflecting that if you don’t contribute, or speak up, or bring yourself as you are, using your specific strengths, personality and talents, the world will miss out.