Many graduates feel overwhelmed starting out after university and are not always sure what to do next or how to speak up.
How can it be that so many clever, competent and capable people can feel that they are just one step away from being exposed as a complete fraud? Despite evidence that they are performing well they can still have that lurking fear that at any moment someone is going to tap them on the shoulder and say “We need to have a chat”.
The session will explain why high performing people often doubt their abilities and find it hard to enjoy their successes. It will also show the links to perfectionism and self-handicapping strategies such as procrastination, avoidance and overcommitment.
At the end of this session you’ll
- know what the latest psychological research tells us about the imposter syndrome is and how it operates
- realise how widespread imposter feelings are and why highly successful people can feel like frauds
- be aware of evidence-based strategies that reduce imposter feelings.
Hugh Kearns is recognised internationally as a public speaker, educator and researcher. His areas of expertise include self-management, positive psychology, work-life balance, learning and creativity.
He draws on over 25 years of experience as a leading training and development professional within the corporate, financial, education and health sectors in Ireland, Scotland, North America, New Zealand and Australia. He has coached individuals, teams and executives in a wide range of organisations in the public and private sectors.
