Leaders sometimes experience what is referred to as “imposter syndrome.” This means the leader may feel uncomfortable attending a meeting or speaking up during the meeting since they don’t feel on par with others in attendance. Perhaps the meeting invite was delegated to the leader from their boss, who couldn’t attend, and therefore, the leader is the most junior in attendance. Here are some tips to help overcome imposter syndrome:
- Remember you are in the room for a reason. Either you were invited to the meeting directly or it was delegated to you because you can provide valuable input on the subject.
- Other people in the room may be feeling the same syndrome. Realize you aren’t necessarily the only person wondering why you’re in the meeting levels the field and should reduce your anxiety about being there.
- Use non-verbal communication cues to show interest in the topic. Nod your head, take notes, and make eye contact with others in the room. These cues will show others you are engaged in the meeting.
- Discuss your unease with someone in the meeting (before entering the room) if you have an established relationship in which you feel comfortable doing so.
- Keep notes during the meeting that detail times when you felt most uncomfortable and/or most comfortable.
- Celebrate your successes. It can be difficult to project confidence while experiencing imposter syndrome, so you should do something nice for yourself as you move through it. Buy yourself an extra coffee, walk, talk to a work friend, etc.
