5 practical ways to fend off imposter syndrome during your job hunting journey

Let’s talk about the good and bad angel hovering over our shoulders, constantly telling us what to do and what not to do. Sound familiar? Well, that bad angel is the one responsible for Imposter Syndrome.

What exactly is Imposter Syndrome?

Essentially it’s that nagging feeling saying, “I don’t belong here” and fearing that others around you will catch on and see you for who you “really” are. Yeah, it’s giving Among Us vibes!

You might recognize unwanted thoughts popping up as you are job-hunting like: “Oh there’s no way I’m even qualified for this” or “They’re asking for 5 years of experience and I only have 4 and 7 months – I’m doomed!”

Surprise, surprise – you’re not alone. At least one recent study estimates that more than 80% of adults experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives (including SIR Paul McCartney!)

But the good news is that bad angel is wrong. This week on Parallel we’re talking the practical ways to fend off Imposter Syndrome during your job hunting journey.

1 | Become self-aware

Just like any personal issue, the first step to solving it is acknowledging that it’s there and that it has a negative impact on you.

Remember: Imposter Syndrome effects us all – but the best way to beat it is acknowledging the thoughts, responding to them with compassion then continuing with the application process. What do you have to lose?!

2 | Redirect your focus to what makes you badass

It’s official: as humans, we have a default setting of dwelling on the negative – past, present and future. Our tip? During the application process, tap into positive self-talk and remind yourself that you are more than qualified for the job.

If you are still not convinced, make an extensive list of all your accomplishments, your strengths, your experiences and use that to tick off your Imposter Syndrome doubts.

3 | Change your mindset

If there is anything we have learned from TikTok it’s that affirmations (and being slightly delusional) works like a charm! Did someone say Lucky Girl Syndrome? Think of it as a form of manifesting.

Reframe your thinking from, “I am not qualified for this job,” to “I am the key to all their [insert job title] needs and they are yet to find out!” Literally speak (and think) your dreams into existence!

<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@mckenziejaidaa/video/7168896402708286763" data-video-id="7168896402708286763" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;" > <section> <a target="_blank" title="@mckenziejaidaa" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mckenziejaidaa?refer=embed">@mckenziejaidaa</a> <p>Being delusional is the most powerful manifestation </p> <a target="_blank" title="♬ original sound" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7168896448669420330?refer=embed">♬ original sound</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>

4 | Protect your energy at all costs

The last thing you need right now is to expose yourself to content (or people) that add fuel to the fire. Whether it’s your first time on the job hunting scene, or you’re freshly out of work – it’s okay and totally natural to feel vulnerable.

Remember that now is the time to really take care of yourself. Practicing self-care and protecting your peace is essential to harnessing your inner confidence needed to tackle this job search.

Speaking of job searching, we got you! Take a dive into Parallel’s job search features that will help you land that job you have been eyeing! 

5 | Don’t stop applying

This is just another way of showing Imposter Syndrome that it does not have permission to control you. Its goal is to have you sit there and beat yourself up! Yes, there will be days when you feel mentally exhausted from applying and on those days, take a break so you can pop up the next day with fresh energy and ready to fight! 

All in all – yes, Imposter Syndrome can be a major internal obstacle when applying for jobs, but don’t let it hold you back. You are the “it” thing, you are the “main character” and you are in your “showing up for myself” era! The job is already yours, believe it, claim it and have fun while you’re at it.