In this episode of the Stepsero podcast we discuss a series of relevant work-related topics, including a common psychological phenomenon known as the impostor syndrome.

Albert, is an HR leader who decided to intensify his focus on people following a very trying experience that involved a mass layoff.

Specifically, Albert explains that in very fast-paced environments professionals might find themselves in great difficulty due to factors like high demands and intense competition. Individuals might be pressured into working harder than ever while often dealing with inadequate resources. On top of this, some workers may develop a tendency to minimize their own achievements and see themselves as total frauds, therefore falling into the trap of impostor syndrome. 

Among the reasons why this happens, Albert mentions an innate fear component paired with our need to seek approval, which is rooted in our upbringing and can become dangerously addictive.

Along the whole interview, we discuss several pointers for leaders to create a safer work environment. Below are a few examples that we find particularly useful:

Albert has developed a career in HR for more than 15 years, having spent over one third of that being an active part of leadership teams within hyper-growth, tech startup companies.

Albert has an outstanding track record growing, developing and managing top-performing, highly customer-focused teams both face-to-face and remote, where employees are more than owners and brand ambassadors: they are satisfied and are thriving on a mission which fulfills them. 

References:

Albert Alabau Linkedin profile

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

Radical Candor by Kim Scott