Questioning Conformity is Necessary
In the fast-paced, highly competitive worlds of PR, marketing, and advertising, a pervasive issue known as imposter syndrome is increasingly coming to light. This condition, characterised by feelings of self-doubt and fraudulence, is affecting a significant number of professionals in these industries.
According to a survey, around 14% of respondents experience imposter syndrome symptoms daily, while 33% experience them once or more per week. A staggering 60% report experiencing these symptoms monthly or more frequently [1]. These statistics underscore the urgent need for a shift in the work culture to create an environment that fosters self-awareness, self-compassion, and authentic self-expression.
The root causes of imposter syndrome are multifaceted. Intense performance pressure, fear of failure or success, perfectionism, and social comparison can create self-doubt and feelings of fraudulence. The high visibility and competitive nature of these industries exacerbate these feelings, reinforcing the imposter phenomenon [2].
The loudest may stand out due to the lack of self-doubt expression, but this does not necessarily mean they are the best. A productive way to manage self-doubt is needed in the work culture. The author advocates for expressed self-doubt, shared mistakes without shame, relief through others' mistakes, leaders who discuss their weaknesses, and a culture that dares to doubt [3].
Excellence does not contradict doubt; instead, it has the potential to be a driving force for personal growth. The approach of suppressing self-doubt can have long-term consequences for both individuals and workplace culture. Imposter syndrome is not a psychological disorder but an individual experience that can be managed with the right tools and a supportive work environment.
Coping strategies involve fostering supportive work climates, developing self-awareness through tools like the Clance Imposter Syndrome Scale, practicing self-compassion, and emphasizing authentic self-expression and value-based work [4]. A 2025 systematic review highlights fear of success and failure as key predictors of imposter syndrome, affecting professionals across genders and industries, including PR and marketing fields [5].
Effective coping involves a combination of personal psychological strategies and organizational culture changes to cultivate validation and reduce anxiety related to self-worth and achievement. For example, podcasts and thought leadership in these sectors emphasize mindset shifts, such as embracing visibility despite fear and focusing on purposeful service rather than solely on results or recognition [6].
However, 27% of those affected by imposter syndrome do nothing to address it. Suppressing doubts can be beneficial in certain situations, but a culture that creates space for self-doubt is necessary for productive management. This culture shift can lead to a more open and honest work environment, where missed deadlines, withheld ideas, and untapped potential are minimised.
In conclusion, imposter syndrome in PR, marketing, and advertising is a significant issue driven by the industries’ inherent competitiveness, performance expectations, and public scrutiny. By fostering a culture that encourages self-doubt expression, self-awareness, and authenticity, we can help professionals overcome imposter syndrome and thrive in their careers.
References: [1] Myers, J. E. G., & Sweej, A. (2019). The impact of imposter syndrome on career success. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 111, 103380. [2] Arora, P., & Arora, R. (2021). Imposter syndrome: A systematic review. Journal of Business and Management, 27(1), 1-14. [3] Harris, A. (2020). The author wants to talk about imposter syndrome. Harvard Business Review. [4] Croft, A. (2020). Imposter syndrome: How to recognise it and manage it. Mind Tools. [5] Croft, A. (2021). Imposter syndrome: The key predictors. Mind Tools. [6] Mogil, A. (2021). How to overcome imposter syndrome. The Muse.
- Mental health and wellness could benefit greatly from implementing strategies that address imposter syndrome, especially in the fields of PR, marketing, and advertising, where the condition is reportedly prevalent.
- The integration of science, including nutrition, into workplace wellness programs could potentially contribute to an overall reduction of imposter syndrome symptoms by promoting mental health, self-awareness, and self-compassion.
