Introduction

Which factors are impacting our self-belief,
and what can we do to change them?

While the correct terminology is largely up for debate – whether its imposter syndrome, imposter phenomenon, fraudulence complex, or simply ‘feeling like a phony’ – what isn’t up for debate is its prevalence within our society today. In fact, 8 in 10 people who read this report are likely to experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives.

Chronic feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy can affect anybody, at any time. Maya Angelou, Tom Hanks, Sheryl Sandberg – all highly successful people at the summit of their respective fields – have admitted to experiencing imposter syndrome throughout their careers. So what hope do the rest of us have?

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Whether it’s an unexpected promotion, working with new people on a stretch assignment, or starting work in a new business, there’s no hard and fast rule about what will drive feelings of self-doubt in somebody. All we know is that once these feelings take hold, they can be difficult to displace – especially if people and organisations don’t work together on managing them.

We wanted to understand how these feelings manifest themselves in working life - which factors are impacting our self-belief, and what can we do to change them?

Read on for new insights from our latest survey of 2,000 working professionals.

Methodology
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2002 respondents (split across all genders, aged 18+) in full-time employment, junior manager level and above. The data was collected between 31/01/25 - 4/2/25. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.

Lorraine Mills
Principal Consultant

Lisa Stone
Head of Coaching

Methodology
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2002 respondents (split across all genders, aged 18+) in full-time employment, junior manager level and above. The data was collected between 31/01/25 - 4/2/25. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.