Understanding and managing imposter syndrome

Training Organisation: Research Coach

Delivery: Online, 2 hours

Programme Description:

“I feel like a fraud”, “I don’t deserve to be here”, “I’ve just been lucky”, “people will find out that I don’t know what I’m talking about”

If you have ever thought any of the above, then you have likely experienced ‘Imposter Syndrome’. It is estimated that over 70% of us will experience a level of Imposter Syndrome at some point in our working life and the PhD process is particularly rife with triggers for imposter feelings.

The good news is, that although they might show up from time to time, there are some useful strategies for keeping imposter feelings at bay and for coping with them when they arise. During this interactive workshop, we will explore the phenomenon of Imposter Syndrome, its possible triggers and potential consequences, and consider some approaches for handling the associated thoughts and feelings. You will have the opportunity to discuss and share experiences with other doctoral students and will come away from the session with some useful tools and techniques to help you recognise and deal with Imposter Syndrome if it shows up for you.

Learning Outcomes:

During this interactive workshop you will:

• Explore what we mean by ‘Imposter Syndrome’ and consider the thoughts, feelings and behaviours that might accompany it.

• Identify scenarios that might trigger your inner 'imposter gremlin'

• Consider a range of strategies that can help you to manage Imposter feelings

• Share experiences amongst a supportive group of peers