Ever felt like you’re faking it, and one day they’ll find out?
You’re not alone. Many first-time leaders experience a wave of self-doubt just when they’re expected to lead with confidence. It’s called imposter syndrome, and it shows up most often when you’re stepping into something new and meaningful, like your first leadership role.
But here’s the truth: feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you’re not ready. It means you care, and that’s the perfect starting point for authentic leadership.
What Is Imposter Syndrome, Really?
Imposter syndrome is the internal belief that you’re not as competent as others think, and that sooner or later, someone will “expose” you. It’s common among high achievers, especially during professional transitions.
In new leadership roles, it can sound like:
- “I’m not experienced enough to lead this team.”
- “I was just one of them. Why would they listen to me now?”
- “What if I mess up and prove them wrong for promoting me?”
Left unchecked, it can drain your energy, shrink your voice in the room, and stop you from growing into the leader you actually are.
Why It Shows Up in New Leadership Roles
Transitioning from contributor to leader isn’t just a title change. It’s a mindset shift. You’re not only responsible for what gets done but how people feel doing it.
The stakes feel higher, and so does the visibility.
Three reasons imposter syndrome hits hard in leadership:
- Increased visibility. You’re suddenly under the spotlight.
- Lack of role models. Especially if you’re the first in your circle to lead.
- Shift from doing to leading. The skills that got you here aren’t always the ones that will take you further.
Five Practical Ways to Overcome Imposter Syndrome as a New Leader
- Normalise It
Almost every leader you admire has felt this. They just don’t talk about it. Recognising it as normal, not a flaw, is the first step to moving forward. - Anchor in Evidence
Create a “confidence file”: feedback from colleagues, successful projects, skills you’ve mastered. When doubt creeps in, open the file. Facts over feelings. - Speak It Out Loud
Mentors, coaches, or peers can help you see your blind spots and your strengths. Imposter syndrome thrives in silence. Bring it into the light. - Practice Self-Leadership
The most trusted leaders lead themselves first. That means managing your self-talk, regulating emotion, and showing up with intention, even when you don’t feel 100% ready. - Lead with Curiosity, Not Perfection
You don’t have to know everything. You just need to ask, listen, and learn. Curiosity builds trust faster than pretending to have all the answers.
A Real Example from Coaching
Robin’s goal was a promotion to a leadership role. When the offer came, Robin was paralysed by self-doubt, perfectionist thoughts and the fear of being ‘found out’. Am I ready? Am I good enough? were the questions echoing in their mind. Together, we explored the conscious and subconscious beliefs behind those doubts. With awareness and self-trust, Robin found the confidence and inner resources to step forward — and went on to excel in the new role.
Imposter syndrome often shows up right before we grow into the next version of ourselves. It’s not a sign that you don’t belong, but a signal that you’re ready to stretch. You’re not an imposter — you’re a leader in transition.
If you’d like to explore this further, you can start with a practical resource I’ve created for emerging leaders.
📘 Download The Next-Level Leader Guide here, it’s designed to help you build clarity, confidence and presence as you take your next step.
Thank you for reading, and remember: the only way to feel like a leader is to lead, one intentional step at a time.
