From left : Naomi Hollas , founder of Event Grads ; Craig Mathie , managing director at Bournemouth 7s ; Sallie Coventry , founder of Coaching +
complicate the experience of imposter syndrome .
The pandemic has also played its role . “ Imposter syndrome has impacted the confidence of industry newcomers . There ’ s been a lack of work experience opportunities available , restricting their chances to learn and network . Therefore , they ’ re left feeling ‘ behind ’ in their career ,” says Hollas .
Furthermore , “ working from home has also resulted in us losing those informal conversations , where you might share a worry with a colleague . It ’ s also given us a lot , if perhaps too much , time to be with our own thoughts ,” adds Coventry .
Advice and strategies
So , how do we move forwards and overcome imposter syndrome ?
How do we curb its rise in the future ?
“ The most important thing we can do to tackle imposter syndrome is to talk about it . The more people realise it is a thing , the more they will be able to put measures in place to counteract it ,” advises Mathie .
For the next generation of eventprofs , Mathie thinks “ peer mentoring and educating can be a really valuable way to make them feel more comfortable with sharing their expertise ”. Asante seconds this and believes “ people who are achieving more than you can keep you inspired , as well as give you sound advice to continue progressing . This will prevent imposter syndrome stopping you
taking that next big leap .” Coventry agrees with Mathie and believes there is a power in externalising our worries , which helps to ultimately shrink them . “ By talking about imposter syndrome , we appreciate how common it is , and how even the most externally confident people still battle with it ,” she says .
You can talk about imposter syndrome with friends and family , or even with a professional coach or therapist . Coventry says the latter can also “ be helpful in making sense of it and turning down the volume of these difficult thoughts and feelings ”.
Both Coventry and Hawkes say practising self-compassion can also be beneficial . “ Self-compassion involves being kind and non-judgemental to yourself ,” says Hawkes . “ We need to recognise that we are human , not super-human and it ’ s okay to make mistakes or not be perfect ,” Coventry adds .
For managing imposter syndrome feelings on the ground at events , Mathie suggests “ tuning into your authentic self ”. Don ’ t worry about appearing professional or polished , you will be seen as an expert if your audience can feel “ your passion and drive ,” he explains .
Considering this , “ everyone is different , so different strategies will work for different people ,” says Hawkes . So , pick whichever strategy speaks the most to you . Hawkes reminds us : “ Imposter syndrome has no correlation with your capabilities . It ’ s just a story you are telling yourself , and you can change the narrative with a little help .”
Similarly , Hollas adds : “ You are worthy of where you are , and your experiences that lead you there . Don ’ t let anyone , especially your imposter syndrome , tell you otherwise .” CN www . conference-news . co . uk