Searches for ‘Imposter Syndrome’ have seen a huge 254% increase over the last five years as the UK faces a confidence crisis in the workplace. But what is Imposter Syndrome (IS), what effect is it having, and how can people overcome it?
The National Institutes of Health defines Imposter Syndrome as “a behavioural health phenomenon” leading to “self-doubt of intellect, skills, or accomplishments among high-achieving individuals.”
New research from PushFar, an online career and mentoring platform has found that 55% of professionals working in Leeds have experienced imposter syndrome in the workplace.
2 in 5 professionals working in Leeds stated that applying for a promotion and being promoted into a new role are their biggest imposter syndrome triggers. Other key triggers included starting a brand-new career (33%) and returning to work after an extended period of leave (31%).
A recent white paper by PushFar titled, ‘The State of Coaching and Mentoring,’ stated that 9 in 10 workers with a mentor feel happier and more confident in their careers, so it is no surprise that over 54% of professionals working in Leeds now have mentors within the workplace.
Mentoring continues to become ever more valued and important for employees, with 70% of employees stating they would leave their organisation for one that invests in their development and learning.
Ed Johnson, CEO of PushFar commented on the latest research: “I was shocked to see that over half of working professionals in Leeds have or are experiencing imposter syndrome. It really speaks volumes to the crisis of confidence our country is facing. Whilst there is no quick fix for Imposter Syndrome, mentoring is one tool which helps people progress and grow in their careers.”
However, PushFar’s recent statistics show that over 57% of Brits credit Imposter Syndrome as playing a role in preventing them from becoming a mentor.
Ed continues “Our latest white paper really showcased how mentoring can help empower people and build confidence, and as such I’d encourage people at all levels to consider turning to a mentor or become a mentor themselves.”
If you think you have what it takes to become a mentor, PushFar have created a new Mentoring Mindset quiz available here: www.pushfar.com/mentoring-quiz. Learn more about what it takes to become a mentor, alongside tackling imposter syndrome!
Author: Simon Walden
Freelance Writer based in Bradford.