The trap of imposter syndrome: Why are so many women caught in its chains at the workplace?

Meet Riya (name changed on request), a 28-year-old marketing manager known for her creative campaigns that have significantly boosted her company’s brand. Despite receiving praise from her co-workers and boss, Riya often feels like an imposter. Each success seems to her a stroke of luck or the result of her team’s efforts rather than her own abilities. At work, she wears a mask of confidence, concealing her self-doubt. While others see her as a leader, she constantly worries that one mistake will expose her as inept. Riya often stays late, compensating for her insecurities by scrutinizing every email and decision, fearing that her accomplishments are just a series of lucky coincidences. Can you relate to Riya’s experience? If so, you may be experiencing what is known as ‘imposter syndrome’ in the workplace.

What is imposter syndrome?

Imposter syndrome refers to a psychological pattern in which individuals doubt their skills, talents or accomplishments and harbor a persistent fear of being exposed as an “impostor”. Despite their accomplishments, people with imposter syndrome often feel undeserving of their success, attributing it to luck, timing or tricking others into believing they are more competent than they really are. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, self-doubt and an excessive need to prove themselves at work.
Imposter syndrome in the workplace can manifest as:

This phenomenon can affect both junior employees and experienced professionals, regardless of their role or level of success. Overcoming it typically involves learning to recognize these feelings, reframe self-doubt, and celebrate your accomplishments.

Gender Disparities in Imposter Syndrome

To understand how imposter syndrome manifests based on gender, we can examine two reports: the Workforce 2024 report by Korn Ferry, a global executive search and leadership consulting firm, and the KPMG study. According to the Workforce report, 47% of employers experience imposter syndrome, with 44% of women affected while 49% of men are affected. Meanwhile, the KPMG report shows that 75% of female executives across various industries have faced imposter syndrome during their careers.
Although imposter syndrome is prevalent in both genders, it manifests differently. According to a Forbes report, men tend to underperform by avoiding challenging goals and feedback, while women often challenge themselves even more to prove their worth. A 2022 report cited by Human Resources Director (HRD) revealed that 80% of men experience imposter syndrome, while 90% of women do the same.

Factors that cause imposter syndrome in women at the workplace

Imposter syndrome is a widespread issue for women in the workplace, often arising from various factors that undermine their confidence and sense of belonging. Some of the factors are mentioned below:
Discriminatory comments and stereotypes: According to Forbes, racist and sexist comments, such as “women aren’t good leaders because they’re too emotional” or “women aren’t good at math or science,” significantly contribute to increased impostor symptoms in women.
Lack of Supportive Leadership: It’s important to have a supportive performance manager who understands your feelings and takes steps to create a positive work environment. A lack of such support can lead to increased self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy.
Unfair compensation: The significant pay gap between men and women in the same positions often leads to cheating. For example, in 2022, women earned on average 82% of what men did, as reported by the Pew Research Center and highlighted by Forbes. This disparity can lead to feelings of unworthiness and insecurity.
Lack of role models: A lack of role models or individuals with similar backgrounds and experiences can foster a sense of loneliness. When women don’t see others like them succeeding in their field, they feel they are not qualified or will never be good enough in the field.

How can women overcome symptoms of imposter syndrome in the workplace?

To combat workplace bullying, women can adopt several proactive strategies that promote confidence and a sense of belonging. Some strategies are given below:
Challenge negative stereotypes: Combat discriminatory comments and stereotypes by actively questioning their validity. Remember your skills, abilities, and accomplishments. Surround yourself with supportive peers who challenge these harmful stories and strengthen your abilities.
Get guidance and support: Find a mentor or supportive performance manager who understands your challenges and can provide guidance. Discuss your feelings of self-doubt openly with them. Talking to someone can help validate your experiences and offer practical advice for dealing with workplace challenges.
Advocate for fair compensation: Educate yourself about pay standards and advocate for fair compensation. Engage in open conversations about pay and seek transparency within your organization. Knowing your worth can help combat feelings of inadequacy and strengthen your sense of value in the workplace.
Build a network of role models: Connect with women and individuals from diverse backgrounds who are succeeding in your field. Join professional organizations, attend networking events or attend workshops that promote inclusivity. Seeing others like you succeed can inspire confidence and create a sense of belonging, helping you fight feelings of being an imposter.

The Sense of Deceitfulness Among CEOs

The Korn Ferry survey also revealed that nearly three-quarters of CEOs in India admitted to having faced a sense of fraud. The survey contacted 1,250 CEOs globally – including from the US, UK, Middle East, Brazil, Australia and India – of which 238 were from India, as reported by the Economic Times. The report shows that the level of fraud is very high in both India and the US.
Globally, the Korn Ferry report shows that 71% of US CEOs and 57% of Middle Eastern CEOs, as well as nearly half of bosses in the UK and Australia, experience imposter syndrome. Furthermore, 65% of senior executives reported suffering from imposter syndrome, while only 33% of early-stage professionals suffered from it.
Another study conducted by Instant Office shows that inquiries related to imposter syndrome have increased by a staggering 75% in 2024 alone. The highest proportion of cases are found in the following:

Additionally, a report from NerdWallet revealed that 78% of business leaders have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their careers.