ECR Network: How to Overcome 'Imposter Syndrome' - 8 April 2015

It’s very easy to feel like an ‘imposter’ when you’re starting out in academia. Prof Ruth Barcan wrote about this in Times Higher Education last year: “many of my colleagues (especially women) gave out subtle signs that they did not feel they were up to the job—almost as though they had been employed in error and would sooner or later be found out.”

This is known as the Imposter Syndrome and symptoms include:

• Secretly worrying that others will find out that you're not as bright and capable as they think you are?
• Shying away from challenges because of nagging self-doubt? 
• Hating to make a mistake, to be less than fully prepared or doing things less than perfectly?

These are classic symptoms and are understandable.  The good news is that we are far from alone, and there is plenty that we can do to overcome the situation. 

Dr Caron Wood will be visiting the University to run a half day workshop that will provide an introduction to:

• The history of the Imposter Syndrome
• What is it and what causes it
• Why having the Imposter Syndrome is good news, and perfectly normal
• The symptoms of this syndrome – how to spot it in ourselves and others
• Practical tips for managing the causes, symptoms and effects of the syndrome

This pragmatic and highly participative workshop will ensure that participants become more aware of the syndrome, how it affects them, and what they can do to make sure that the effects are appropriate, managed and do not adversely affect performance.  Participants will leave with an understanding of some practical tools and techniques to enable them to manage their experiences of the Imposter Syndrome, ensuring that self-esteem, confidence and performance do not suffer as a result.

It is free, and open to all University academics and researchers. However, do let me know if you plan to come along so that I can ensure that I can book an appropriate room and refreshments.