Every employee who’s spent a few years in the professional workforce has had at least one encounter with “Imposter Syndrome”, or the feeling that their current position is unearned, undeserved, or somehow fraudulent. This feeling is as awkward, embarrassing, and isolating as it is universal. It can rise up and assault us on our worst days, and also sometimes on our best. It’s a creeping recognition that we’ve somehow gotten in over our heads—that we’ve misrepresented ourselves to get where we are and it’s only a matter of time before the truth comes out.

Of course, there are some people who actually do misrepresent themselves and live with the constant possibility of exposure. But most of us who fall victim to Imposter Syndrome are simply getting bogged down in self-doubt. These swampy episodes of low self-confidence often pass on their own, but they can create real problems when they confront us on the job search. If you come across a posting for a dream job and let it pass you by because you feel you simply aren’t ready or aren’t worthy, you may be missing out on a golden opportunity.

Don’t let this happen. Recognize Imposter Syndrome for what it is, and avoid the situations and circumstances that tend to trigger feelings of false incompetence.

Managing Imposter Syndrome During the Job Search

First, take a close look at the posting for your dream job and ask yourself three questions. 1. Are there aspects of this job you feel you won’t do well? 2. How many of the qualifications for the job do you have? (If you have even half of them, apply.) 3.) As you begin the application process, do you fear certain questions, tests, or background investigations that might expose you?

If you answer yes to any of these, stop and think about why. Are your reasons realistic? They may not be. And even if they are, are your fears really worth missing out on this rare chance? If you don’t know how to answer these questions, get help from a counselor or mentor.

Second, be ready to ask questions of your own during the interview and application process. There are certain workplace environments that can trigger strong feelings of Imposter Syndrome, and if this workplace fits the bill, you may not be happy here. A poor workplace culture is one that makes employees feel isolated, encourages intense competition rather than teamwork, provides minimal mentoring, and upholds a rigid and parochial definition of employee “success.” If your interviewer describes any of these elements (especially if he or she does so proudly), then let this job go. You won’t be missing an opportunity; you’ll be dodging a bullet.

For additional support, answers, and guidance with the job search process, check in with the Texas employment pros at Expert Staffing. We have the tools you need to keep your career on track.