You're stepping into a new Business Strategy role. How can you conquer imposter syndrome?

Conquering imposter syndrome in a new Business Strategy role involves building confidence and seeking support. Start by acknowledging your achievements and reminding yourself why you were chosen for the role. Set realistic goals and celebrate small wins to build momentum. Seek mentorship and feedback from colleagues and industry peers to gain perspective and validation. Continuously expand your knowledge and skills through professional development. Practice self-compassion and challenge negative self-talk by focusing on facts and evidence of your competence. Building a supportive network and maintaining a growth mindset will help you thrive in your new role.

To conquer imposter syndrome in a new Business Strategy role, Embracing Learning is key. When I started in my business strategy role, I often felt like I didn’t belong. Instead of letting this feeling take over, I focused on learning everything I could. I took online courses, attended workshops, and asked questions whenever I had the chance. Embracing learning helped me gain confidence and realize that growth is part of the journey. This approach transformed my anxiety into a drive for continuous improvement, helping me feel more secure in my abilities.

Starting a new role in Business Strategy is like embarking on a thrilling adventure. Just like exploring a new land, you won't have all the answers from the get-go, and that's completely okay. Embrace the unknown as a chance to grow and evolve. Every tidbit of information you gather, whether from books, courses, industry insights, or even in-person interactions with colleagues or clients is like discovering a hidden treasure that augments your knowledge base. So, set sail with an open heart, a curious mind, and a hunger for knowledge, and watch yourself transform.

To conquer imposter syndrome, I recon to adopt a multi-faceted approach seeking into best practices and remedies at the same time. Acknowledge and reframe, start building a strong foundation, thus investing in one's professional development, cultivating a supporting network, thus supporting team of mentors and experts, embrace failure as a Teacher & seeking for continuous improvement, setting realistic and pragmatic goals with KPIs and OKRs, practice self compassion and keeping a success journal. Last but not least, to strategize with regular reflection and mindfulness, speaking up about accomplishment, seeking and accepting feedback constructively, setting personal boundaries, normalizing the conversation, and visualizing success.

Redefinir el Fracaso, cada vez que fracaso lo veo como una oportunidad. Oportunidad para aprender y mejorar en lugar de una prueba de incompetencia. Esto me permite desarrollar resiliencia, para poder enfrentar nuevos desafíos y adversidades.

You got the role for a reason. It may not be - and very likely will not be - that you have 100% of the skills and experience asked for. What you do have is your unique skills and experience (this is pure Drucker). It's also OK to ask the hiring manager why they chose you - what "thing" they saw that made the difference. Then you will know at least one way you're expected to approach the role.

Great insight Eric Kauffman, I would add to this that one of the strongest positions you can take is to "be curious" ask a lot of questions, at the same time be willing to listen and learn from the responses you get. Imposture syndrome, just like the inherent nervous feeling when starting a new engagement can be overcome with knowledge. One of the best ways to close gaps in your knowledge is by asking/interviewing subject matter experts. In time you will learn that most people are willing to talk and the share with a person who is keenly interested in them and what they have to say. Be that person, and then you won't be an imposture.

Actively seek feedback from colleagues, managers, or mentors. Understanding how others perceive your performance can provide valuable reassurance and a more objective view of your abilities.

You were chosen for a reason. It's unlikely that you possess 100% of the required skills and experience, but you bring your unique abilities and background to the table (as Peter Drucker would emphasize). It's perfectly acceptable to ask the hiring manager why you were selected—what specific qualities or experiences stood out. This insight will help you understand at least one key approach you're expected to take in your new role.

Feedback is an essential part of a business. We should always look to get feedback and should take the feedback seriously as it helps us to keep a check on the quality of our work. It helps us to know how we are performing, which in turn makes us better when it comes to decision making. So whether the feedback is negative or positive, we are always in a win-win situation.

Authentically getting to know others is one of the most strategic ways you can counter imposter syndrome. When you genuinely want to help others and are vulnerable with your own journey, people tend to more meaningfully connect with you. I have long believed “community creates capacity.” Intentionally build community around the areas you want to grow in and help others grow as well.

While building these relationships is extremely important, there are still a lot of us who still struggle. In my case, what I find highly effective to building a strong rapport is being authentic and having empathy for others. When you engage with others, try to see things from their point of view. Listen carefully and show that you genuinely care about what they have to say. Building trust and respect in your relationships creates a strong base for good communication, and collaboration . Think of it like a tree: the roots give it strength and help it grow, just like strong relationships in business give you support, helpful feedback, and opportunities to learn and grow.

Mentors, Peers and Mentees are invaluable when it comes to imposter syndrome. Mentors - have been where you are. They can share what they felt at the time. Which normally isn't too far from what you feel now. Use them as a roadmap Peers - everyone may look like they have everything under control. Sometimes just an honest chat, whinge or a moan with likeminded peers gives you perspective. No one has all the answers. Mentees - an under-looked perk of having someone who wants to be where you are. It's a reminder that whilst you may sometimes feel like an imposter. To someone else - you're exactly what they wish to become. Surround yourself with the right people - and everything else will follow.

Building strong relationships is crucial, but many of us still find it challenging. Personally, I've found that authenticity and empathy are key to establishing strong rapport. When interacting with others, try to see things from their perspective. Listen attentively and show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings. Building trust and respect forms a solid foundation for effective communication and collaboration. Think of it like a tree: its roots provide strength and support, just as strong relationships in business offer support, valuable feedback, and opportunities for growth and learning.

Engage with mentors, peers, and friends who acknowledge your accomplishments and help you recognize your worth. Sharing your feelings with trusted individuals can often lead to discovering that others experience similar doubts, which normalizes these feelings. This camaraderie can boost your confidence, provide constructive feedback, and reinforce the reality of your successes, thereby helping to diminish the feelings associated with imposter syndrome.

In my experience the quickest way to shake the imposter feeling is by doing. What is the expectation of someone in that positions. Whoever promoted you in that seat has expectations on your impact. One of the first things you should do is identify what “good” looks like, mutually agree they are realistic and obtainable. Once you agree, set goals and bench marks to exceed those! As you accomplish your goals it’ll validate that you do belong in that position!

To make your goals even more effective, consider using the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goal framework. You will create clear, actionable targets that leave little room for self-doubt. For instance, instead of "improve market share," set a SMART goal such as "increase our product's market share by 2% within the next six months through targeted marketing campaigns and strategic partnerships." This approach provides a clear direction and tracks progress objectively, reinforcing self-efficacy. Also, share this with your team and get their feedback, which provides confirmation or correction that the goals are SMART and you (in learning mode) know where to go forward.

It's likely that you are your own toughest critic. Instead of dwelling on self-criticism, direct your energy towards the tasks at hand. Break down your responsibilities into manageable steps and tackle them one at a time. By concentrating on what needs to be done, you can reduce feelings of overwhelm and build a sense of accomplishment. Remember, everyone makes mistakes, and it's part of the learning process. Give yourself credit for your efforts and progress, and keep moving forward.

It's likely that you are your own toughest critic. Instead of focusing on self-criticism, channel your energy into the tasks at hand. Break down your responsibilities into manageable steps and address them one by one. This approach can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and build a sense of accomplishment. Remember, everyone makes mistakes, and it's a natural part of the learning process. Acknowledge your efforts and progress, and keep moving forward.

Start by evaluating your expectations and align them with your actual capabilities. Break larger tasks into manageable steps to create a clear roadmap for success. Celebrate small victories along the way, which can build confidence and provide tangible evidence of your competencies. Avoid setting perfection as the standard; instead, aim for progress and learning. This approach helps to mitigate overwhelming feelings and the fear of failure that fuel imposter syndrome, making your achievements feel more authentic and deserved.

To conquer imposter syndrome in a new Business Strategy role, Reflecting on Success is the most effective strategy. When starting out, it’s easy to feel like you don’t belong. Reflecting on past achievements helps combat these feelings. Think about the projects you’ve successfully completed and the skills you’ve honed. This reflection reinforces your competence and boosts your confidence. For example, recalling how I led a successful marketing campaign reminded me of my abilities and gave me the assurance needed to excel in my new role. Reflecting on success grounds you in your true capabilities.

Reflect on the wins that brought you to this role. Write down three of your strengths and focus on using them in your new position. Use this method to boost your confidence and overcome imposter syndrome.

It's common to focus on the negatives. The things we need to improve on. That's human nature. But your successes are what got you to where you are. What people value in your work. What you're great at. An exercise I did recently with a coach was to write down the things which got me into this position, the challenges I'd overcome, and what I was proud of. Then – I had someone read those things aloud to me in the third person. As if the plaudits were someone else's. It’s amazing what we can give others credit for, but we wouldn't dream of giving ourselves credit for! Reflect on success. Be kind to yourself. There's a reason you're here.

Typical experiencers of Imposter Syndrome are high-functioning, high-achieving individuals who not only fear failure, but fear success (i.e., success will lead to higher standards for me, or more work, so avoid success). To learn to tolerate this, lean into celebrating the small successes you achieve daily. It can be as simple as getting to the office five minutes early, closing a deal with a new client, or wrapping up the loose sends on a completed project. Even better, celebrate successes with your coworkers. This creates greater camaraderie and reduces the feeling of being alone in the process, which takes some of the burden to be the "hero," which naturally lowers the feelings of Imposter Syndrome.

To conquer imposter syndrome in a new Business Strategy role, reflecting on your success is the most effective strategy. When starting out, it’s easy to feel like you don’t belong. Reflecting on past achievements helps combat these feelings. Think about the projects you’ve successfully completed and the skills you’ve honed. This reflection reinforces your competence and boosts your confidence. For example, recalling how I led a successful marketing campaign reminded me of my abilities and gave me the assurance needed to excel in my new role. Reflecting on success grounds you in your true capabilities.

This might seem “over-simplistic”…. but it is also true. If you got somewhere - wherever that is, including a new, higher, strategic position in a company - it is because of everything you did in your journey there. Because of you and your work. So this is kind of a no-brainer: just ignore the noise and keep pushing, keep working, keep trucking over challenges while drinking all new relationships and learning opportunities that will surely come to you.

Learn as you go. Constantly practice self-compassion and self-love. You have to know that you can't be perfect, and you can't know everything, it is just impossible. But what is possible is learning about your own strengths or limitations, and knowing how to play from them. This way, you can keep your mind at peace, and allow yourself to exude confidence when going about to perform your day-to-day work.

💎 Be kind to yourself. Imposter syndrome often stems from internalised pressure to be perfect. Recognise that perfection is unattainable and mistakes are part of growth. 💎 Practice self-compassion. Speak to yourself as you would to a friend in a similar situation. This mindset reduces anxiety associated with imposter syndrome. 💎 Approach your role with confidence. Celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Seek support from peers and mentors. Remember, everyone faces challenges. Embrace them as opportunities for learning and growth.

Learn as you go. Constantly practice self-compassion and self-love. Accept that you can't be perfect and you can't know everything—it's simply impossible. What is possible is understanding your own strengths and limitations and knowing how to leverage them. This approach helps you maintain peace of mind and allows you to exude confidence in your day-to-day work. By recognizing your unique abilities and areas for growth, you can navigate your role with greater assurance and effectiveness.

Self-compassion is a powerful tool in overcoming imposter syndrome. By treating yourself with kindness and understanding, you can alleviate the unrealistic pressure to be perfect. Recognizing that everyone makes mistakes and that these are opportunities for growth can shift your mindset from one of self-criticism to one of self-acceptance. When you speak to yourself as you would to a friend facing similar challenges, you create a supportive internal dialogue that fosters confidence and resilience. Embracing self-compassion allows you to navigate your new role with greater ease and a healthier perspective.

A final point to remember... Doing something well within your comfort zone can not trigger Imposter Syndrome. The only way you can possibly feel it, is to do something new. That feeling - is called progress.

Simply start by acknowledging your feelings and understanding that it's normal to feel nervous in a new role. It's easy to get caught up in work and neglect your health. Ensure you get enough sleep. It's important to set clear boundaries to avoid overworking and stress. Know when to say no and prioritize tasks effectively. Properly managing your time can prevent last-minute rushes and reduce stress. Set realistic goals by breaking down big tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate small wins, no matter how minor they seem. Keep learning new skills and staying updated with industry trends and to build your confidence. Ask questions to show your willingness to learn. Don’t ignore the importance of a good professional network.

If you start to notice characteristics of imposter syndrome, it’s important to seek professional help from therapists who specialize in self-esteem, anxiety, or related issues. These professionals can provide the support and strategies needed to overcome the negative thoughts and feelings associated with imposter syndrome. Trust me, I live with one. 🧠