Imposter Phenomenon was first identified and written about by two female clinical psychologists in 1978. Sometimes referred to as “imposter syndrome,” it describes feelings of inadequacy or fear of being “found out” and is estimated to affect upwards of 70% of professionals, both women and men. In this episode, we talk to a friend and former colleague, Emy Farley, about her experience with feelings of imposter phenomenon, ways she manages those feelings for herself, and strategies to acknowledge and minimize those feelings in others.         

Key Takeaways:

• A registrar’s office is an exceptionally complicated organization within any institution, and it can be intimidating for people starting out in an office. This can lead to feelings that they should know everything right away, and it’s important to nurture an office culture of speaking up to ask questions.
• Affirming accomplishments can go a long way to building someone’s confidence, which can also help diminish imposter phenomenon feelings. Leaning into your strengths and asking for assistance with your weaknesses is another strategy. Teamwork makes the dream work. 
• It is completely valid for a person of privilege to experience imposter phenomenon. But also recognize that people in your office or students at your institution who may not have as much privilege will also be experiencing those feelings, and likely more intensely or more frequently. As a manager, a supervisor, a registrar…as a human being it’s vital to give people grace and space and make sure that they feel welcome and included.  

Guest:

Emy Farley
Workday and ERP Product Manager
Bowdoin College
[email protected]

References and Additional Information:

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. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0086006

Craig, L. (2018). Are you suffering from imposter syndrome? Psychological Science Agenda. http://www.apa.org/science/about/psa/2018/09/imposter-syndrome

Parkman, A. (2016). The imposter phenomenon in higher education: Incidence and impact. Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice, 16(1), 51–60.

Dr. Pauline Rose Clance – CIPS Test and additional information:  https://paulineroseclance.com/impostor_phenomenon.html

Valerie Young – Imposter Syndrome Expert: https://impostorsyndrome.com/10-steps-overcome-impostor/

TED Talk: Dena Simmons on How Students of Color Confront Impostor Syndrome: https://www.ted.com/talks/dena_simmons_how_students_of_color_confront_impostor_syndrome   

Core Competencies:

Diversity & Inclusion

Leadership & Managemen