Imposter syndrome – why it happens and what you can do about it

Posted on 20 May 2026 • Career planning

Imposter syndrome is the internal experience of believing that you aren’t as competent as others perceive you to be. It often comes with the fear of being exposed as a fraud, and a tendency to downplay personal achievements. It can affect anybody, regardless of background, skill level, or degree of expertise. If that sounds like you, check out Build your career confidence and try our practical activities.

Employers know that talented people still need support

‘In early-career roles we regularly see talented people questioning whether they truly belong, particularly when taking that non-linear route into their desired industry. The reality is that growth comes through learning on the job, and employers have a responsibility to create opportunities and environments where people feel supported while they build that confidence.’

Rachel McMahon, Academy Ops & People Lead, Corecom Tech Academy

You’re in good company

Imposter syndrome doesn’t discriminate. Maya Angelou, despite writing eleven books, admitted she constantly feared being “found out.” Albert Einstein described himself as an “involuntary swindler.” If high achievers at the very top of their fields felt this way, it’s worth questioning how reliable that inner critic really is. Get inspired by the stories of other OU students, and know that if they can do it, so can you.

Change is often the catalyst

Imposter syndrome often surfaces during periods of transition- starting a new course, entering a new industry, or taking on more responsibility. These are precisely the moments when we’re comparing our internal experience (the self-doubt, the uncertainty) with other people’s external appearance (their confidence, their polish). It’s an unfair comparison, and it rarely reflects reality

What you can do

1.  Record your successes. Start a running document of achievements, positive feedback, and moments where you handled something well. When doubt creeps in, this becomes evidence to push back with. Try using these tools to recognise your skills.
2.  Name it. Talking about imposter syndrome, with a friend, mentor, or careers consultant, takes away some of its power. You may find the person you tell has felt exactly the same way.
3.  Separate feelings from facts. Feeling out of your depth is not the same as being out of your depth. Discomfort in a new role is normal; it means you’re learning, not failing.
4.  Reframe the learning curve. As the employer above notes, growth comes through learning on the job. Not knowing everything on day one isn’t a flaw in you- it’s a feature of the process.

Remember

Careers and Employability Services is here to help you navigate those moments of self-doubt- whether that’s preparing for an application, reflecting on your skills, or building your career confidence. Book a consultation to talk it over with us.