How to Stop Imposter Syndrome from Hijacking Your Next Interview

Picture this: You've landed an interview for a role you REALLY want. You're qualified. You've done similar work before. But as you prepare, that all-too-familiar voice creeps in:

• "They'll figure out I'm not really an expert."

• "Other candidates probably have better qualifications."

• "What if they ask something I can't answer?"

Feel familiar? That's imposter syndrome hijacking your interview before it even starts.

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern first identified by Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes. It often leads high-achievers to doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a "fraud," despite external evidence of their competence.[1] Imposter syndrome doesn't just affect how you feel – it can impact how you present yourself, transforming qualified candidates into nervous applicants who:

• Downplay their achievements

• Over-qualify their statements ("I kind of have experience in...")

• Focus on what they lack instead of what they bring

• Rush through their successes but dwell on their uncertainties

Those feelings of self-doubt don't reveal the truth about your abilities – but can block you from sharing your authentic value.

Your Journey IS Your Expertise

Research shows that 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers.[2] So, the next time self-doubt pays you a visit, remember: You haven't just read about getting things done – you do it every day:

• That crisis project you rescued shows that you know how to solve problems under pressure.

• That difficult client you won over proves you can transform challenging relationships.

• That new system you implemented demonstrates your ability to lead change.

And don't forget all you've mastered in the school of L.I.F.E.! The PTA fundraiser you organized, the multi-generational family reunion you coordinated, the way you managed your parents' care while working full-time – these experiences aren't just personal achievements. They're evidence of transferable skills employers value, like goal-setting, stakeholder management, and prioritizing.[3]

Your professional and personal achievements aren't just experiences – they're evidence of your expertise. And that's why the right organization won't just accept your journey – they'll value it.

By coaching dozens of high-achieving women, I've discovered that preparation boosts confidence, which can help minimize imposter syndrome. This method has helped our clients see a 188% increase in interview confidence, and you can too! Start today with our Interviewing Success Checklist; to help you:

• Research the role and organization

• Identify your strengths and craft your story

• Practice responses and prepare questions

• Follow up thoughtfully post-interview

Your experiences have developed you for meaningful impact. Now it's time to own that truth in your interviews.

Let’s keep growing! 🌱

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About the Author

Dr. Erica Walls is a Women's Leadership & Career Strategist who helps professional women over 40 achieve authentic success—alignment between who you are, the work you do, and how you show up. Ready to advance your career? Explore coaching programs | Book a consultation | Connect on LinkedIn

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¹ Clance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). The imposter phenomenon in high achieving women: Dynamics and therapeutic intervention. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice, 15(3), 241–247.

² Sakulku, J. (2011). The Impostor Phenomenon. The Journal of Behavioral Science, 6(1), 75-97. 

³ Ibarra, H. (2004). Working Identity: Unconventional Strategies for Reinventing Your Career. Harvard Business Review Press.