How to Conquer Imposter Syndrome in Your Job Search and Career
May 22, 2024
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Former White House social secretary, Deesha Dyer, shares her journey of overcoming imposter syndrome in her career. She provides valuable advice on practicing self-compassion, challenging negative thoughts, and seeking support. Dyer discusses her transition from a hip hop reporter to a social secretary for the Obama administration.
Conquering imposter syndrome involves muting self-doubts and challenging negative thoughts.
Embracing self-compassion and authenticity helps navigate career transitions and combat imposter syndrome.
Deep dives
Understanding Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome, although not a clinical diagnosis, is a real issue linked to burnout and depression that hinders individuals from realizing their full potential. This self-fulfilling prophecy instills doubts in our capabilities. Overcoming imposter syndrome involves muting the self-doubt telling us we are unworthy. It pervades various age groups and professional levels, challenging individuals to acknowledge their achievements and combat self-limiting beliefs.
Disha's Experience as White House Social Secretary
Disha Dyer's journey from intern to White House Social Secretary depicted a struggle with chronic imposter syndrome, questioning her qualifications despite her prominent roles and achievements. Dyer's memoir 'Undiplomatic' humanizes the challenges of imposter syndrome, emphasizing the internal battle of worthiness and self-doubt. Her story highlights the impact of imposter syndrome on career progression, inspiring others to navigate similar hurdles.
Advice on Embracing Individuality and Learning Experiences
Dyer's advice on thriving as an intern includes showcasing individuality, avoiding the pressure to know everything, and embracing learning experiences. Her emphasis on retaining authenticity in professional settings underscores the importance of self-acceptance and valuing personal uniqueness. Encouraging interns to network authentically and remain true to themselves fosters confidence and contributes to a fulfilling professional journey.
Navigating Post-Transition Challenges
Post-transition, Dyer faced mental, physical, and spiritual exhaustion, akin to hitting a wall after an intense marathon. Advancing from the White House role necessitated a period of reflection and renewal. Dyer's positive outlook on unknown futures advises embracing unemployment without devaluing oneself, networking for opportunities, and maintaining faith in unseen prospects. She champions the grace of self-compassion in turbulent career transitions.
Imposter syndrome is a real and pervasive problem. It’s associated with burnout, depression and anxiety, and it holds us back from reaching our full potential and achieving career satisfaction. So, what can we do to conquer our imposter syndrome at work?
On this episode of Get Hired, LinkedIn News Editor Andrew Seaman speaks with Deesha Dyer, former White House social secretary and author of the book Undiplomatic: How My Attitude Created the Best Kind of Trouble. Deesha discusses her career path from hip hop reporter to White House intern to social secretary for the Obama administration, and shares how she overcame her own feelings of imposter syndrome at work. She also offers advice on practicing self-compassion, challenging negative thoughts and seeking support.
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