Here’s the thing: I’ve learned that feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one. It’s just your brain trying to keep you humble (or maybe a little too humble).
Imposter syndrome - the feeling that you’re not as competent as others perceive you to be - can hit hard when you’re sitting across from a hiring manager, trying to sell yourself as the perfect candidate. But here’s the truth: that nagging doubt doesn’t mean you’re a fake. It means you’re human. And with the right preparation and mindset, you can quiet that inner critic and walk into your next interview ready to shine.
In this post, I’m sharing five practical strategies to tackle imposter syndrome, prep like a pro, and perform at your best during interviews. These tips have helped me (and others) transform those jittery moments into opportunities to showcase my authentic, awesome self. Let’s dive in.
In this post, I’m sharing five practical strategies to tackle imposter syndrome, prep like a pro, and perform at your best during interviews. These tips have helped me (and others) transform those jittery moments into opportunities to showcase my authentic, awesome self. Let’s dive in.
1. Own Your Story: You’re Not Faking It, You’re Making It
Imposter syndrome loves to downplay your accomplishments. It will have you second-guessing that project you led, that skill you taught yourself, or that late-night problem-solving session that saved the day. But here’s the reality: every single one of those moments is proof you belong in that interview room.Before your next interview, take 10 minutes to write down 3-5 wins - big or small - that highlight your skills and grit. Maybe you streamlined a process at work, learned a new tool under pressure, or even just showed up consistently for a tough team. These are your proof points. Keep them in your back pocket (or a note on your phone) to remind yourself you’re not an imposter - you’re someone who’s been making it happen all along.Pro Tip: When the interviewer asks, “Tell me about yourself,” weave one of these wins into your answer. It’ll ground you and show them you’ve got the goods.2. Prep with Purpose: Knowledge Is Your Shield
Nothing fuels imposter syndrome like walking into an interview feeling unprepared. The good news? Solid preparation is like a suit of armor against self-doubt. When you’ve done your homework, that inner critic has a lot less to say.Start by researching the company—its mission, values, recent projects, or even its competitors. Dig into the job description and match your skills to their needs. Then, practice answering common interview questions (you know, the classics like “What’s your biggest weakness?” or “Why do you want this role?”). Better yet, grab a friend or colleague for a mock interview to simulate the real thing. The more you practice, the more you’ll trust your ability to handle whatever they throw at you.Pro Tip: Prep one thoughtful question to ask the interviewer, like, “How does the team measure success in this role?” It shows you’ve done your research and shifts the focus to your curiosity.3. Reframe the Narrative: You’re a Work in Progress
One of the sneakiest tricks imposter syndrome plays is convincing you that you need to know everything to be qualified. Spoiler alert: no one expects you to be perfect - not even the interviewer. Instead of seeing the interview as a test you have to ace, reframe it as a conversation where you’re both exploring a potential fit.If you get a question that stumps you, don’t panic. Try saying, “That’s a great question - I’d love to dive deeper into that. Could you share more about [related topic]?” This shows you’re engaged and eager to learn, which is far more valuable than pretending to have all the answers. You’re not an imposter; you’re a work in progress, just like everyone else.Pro Tip: Before the interview, remind yourself: “I don’t need to be perfect. I just need to show I’m ready to grow.” It’s a game-changer.4. Fake It ‘Til You Feel It: Body Language Matters
Imposter syndrome doesn’t just mess with your mind - it can make your body betray you, too. Slumped shoulders, fidgeting, or avoiding eye contact can scream self-doubt, even if you’re nailing your answers. The good news? You can trick your brain into feeling confident by acting the part.Before the interview, try a power pose (think Wonder Woman stance, hands on hips) for two minutes to boost your confidence. During the interview, sit up straight, smile, and maintain eye contact. These small moves signal to the interviewer (and yourself) that you’re capable and engaged. It’s not about faking who you are - it’s about letting your best self take center stage.Pro Tip: Practice your “confident posture” in the mirror or during your mock interview. It feels silly, but it works.5. Celebrate the Moment: You’re Already Winning
Here’s something imposter syndrome doesn’t want you to realize: just getting to the interview is a win. You’ve already cleared hurdles - your resume caught their eye, your application stood out, and they want to meet you. That’s not luck; that’s you bringing something to the table.Whether you land the job or not, every interview is a chance to grow, refine your skills, and get more comfortable in your own skin. So, after the interview, give yourself a high-five (yes, really). Celebrate showing up, speaking your truth, and putting yourself out there. Imposter syndrome might try to steal the spotlight, but you’re the one writing this story.Pro Tip: After the interview, jot down one thing you did well (e.g., “I answered that tough question calmly”) and one thing to improve next time. It’s a small way to turn every experience into progress.You’ve Got This
Imposter syndrome might tag along to your next interview, but it doesn’t get to run the show. By owning your story, preparing with purpose, reframing your mindset, using confident body language, and celebrating your efforts, you can walk into that room ready to shine. You’re not faking it—you’re making it, one step at a time.Have you ever felt like an imposter in an interview? What helped you push through? I’d love to hear your story—share it in the comments below or send me a message. Let’s keep the conversation going and lift each other up.If you want to learn more about conquering that nagging feeling, join my newsletter.
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