Conquer Job Search Anxiety: A Guide to Battling Imposter Syndrome

Looking at job descriptions can instantly trigger the "oh no, I'm not good enough for that" thoughts. Getting an interview can lead us down the "I can't believe they want to interview me. They must have made a mistake." path. If these thoughts sound familiar, you're not alone.

Experiencing Imposter syndrome is common when when applying for jobs. 

Recognizing Imposter Syndrome in the Job Application Process

Imposter syndrome is the nagging feeling that you're not as competent as others think you are, and it's especially common among high achievers. When job searching, it can manifest in various ways:

1. Self-Doubt: You feel unqualified despite your skills and achievements or you have trouble connecting what you've done with what the job description is asking for. 

2. Fear of Failure: You're afraid of being exposed as a "fraud." After looking at the job description you let your imagination run wild, imaging what it would be like to be fired because you weren't what they were expecting. 

3. Attributing Success to Luck: You tell yourself your achievements at other jobs were just due to external factors like support you got from a boss or a change in the industry rather than your own abilities.

The truth is that Imposter syndrome can wreak havoc on your job search! You might skip applying for jobs you're qualified for, thinking you're not good enough, you might downplay your skills and achievements on resumes and cover letters, and it can leave you with an overwhelming sense of dread and anxiety during job interviews, fearing you'll be found out as a fraud.

Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

The good news? You can overcome imposter syndrome. Here's a few of my favorite tips for kicking imposter syndrome to the curb while you are on your job hunt. 

1. Recognize and Name it! Being aware of the sneaky negative thoughts creeping in and telling you that you aren't good enough is half the battle. When you spot them you'll be equipped to say "this is my imposter syndrome talking, not reality" and dismiss the thought for what it is... just a thought, not a truth.  

2. Keep a Brag Sheet For Tough Moments: We've all received compliments, reviews and sweet feedback from our colleagues and bosses. Take a moment to collect all of those comments and create a brag sheet for yourself. Copy down the text that makes you feel good and reminds you of the huge impact you have had on your job and on others. Print it out and hang it up, or just keep an easy link on your computer that you can revisit whenever you need to. During your job search use this Brag Sheet as a document to return to when you feel the imposter thinking taking over the way you think about yourself.

3. Seek Feedback: Getting feedback on your resume, cover letter, and interview skills can help you make sure you aren't underplaying what you are capable of or burying your achievements. There are coaches that you can hire to do a review for you (Like me!) or you can ask a trusted mentor or friend to help. Ask them to focus specifically on how you represent yourself and ask them to help you make sure your achievements are clear and your talents and skills are easy to spot in your application materials. 

4. Practice Positive Affirmations: Find a self-affirmation that helps you ground back to your accomplishments when you need to. Something like "I am amazing at what I do and my accomplishments are all due to my hard work." Use your affirmation to build your self-confidence and counter negative thoughts.

Imposter syndrome can be a significant hurdle in your job search, but it doesn't have to hold you back. By recognizing your feelings, leveraging your support systems, and taking practical steps to prepare and build confidence, you can overcome imposter syndrome and find the job you deserve.

Remember, you are more capable and qualified than you think. Keep pushing forward, and don't let imposter syndrome stand in the way of your success.