Overcoming imposter syndrome: how early-career leaders can build confidence

If you’ve ever stepped into a leadership role and felt a wave of self-doubt, you’re not alone. Many early-career leaders struggle with overcoming imposter syndrome – that nagging feeling that they don’t truly belong, that they aren’t qualified, or that others will eventually “find them out.”  But here’s the truth.  Confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t have. It’s something you can build.

In my latest column in The Globe and Mail – How early-career leaders can overcome imposter syndrome: Nine confidence hacks that work – I explore practical strategies to push past these doubts and step into leadership with self-assurance.

Imposter syndrome isn’t just a personal struggle.  It has real impacts on decision-making, career progression, and team leadership. But the good news is that there are proven ways to quiet that inner critic. My column breaks down nine actionable confidence hacks.  Each one is designed to help leaders at all levels recognize their worth, own their expertise, and lead with conviction.

I won’t give away all the details here, you’ll have to read the full article for that :).  But one key takeaway is that overcoming imposter syndrome is a process, and confidence is built through action. Whether it’s shifting your mindset, leveraging mentors, or focusing on past successes, there are tangible steps you can take to silence self-doubt and step into your role with confidence.

I invite you to check out the full article here: http://www.turningmanagersintoleaders.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GM_ManagementOnline_032125.pdf.

If you’re a Globe and Mail online subscriber, you can also access it directly at https://tinyurl.com/2ktphbh8

Have you ever struggled with imposter syndrome in your leadership journey? What strategies have helped you build confidence? Share your experiences in the comments, I’d love to hear your thoughts!