5 types of imposter

Different Types of Imposter Syndrome

Wouldn't it be great if imposter syndrome showed up in a clear and simple way and we could spot it easily? The reality is that is shows up in many ways. Dr Valerie Young, Imposter Syndrome Expert, classified 5 core types. By understanding the the subtypes, you not only recognise it in yourself, but you might also spot it in your people and can help and support them.  You might have one dominant type or have a blend of a few. 

1. The Perfectionist

The perfectionist represents a person with imposter syndrome who is relentless at being their very best in everything that they do. Even if their view of perfect doesn't reflect the expectations of others around them, and even if it impacts their mental or physical health.  no matter the cost to their mental health. These individuals may be identified as typical “perfectionists” who set impossibly high standards for themselves. Perfectionism and impostor syndrome often go hand-in-hand. They set excessively high standards for themselves, and when they fail to reach a goal, they blame themselves and their self-doubt goes into overdrive. Their only coping mechanism is to work even harder and strive even more.  It shows up in the micro-manager who hovers over their team and needs to know everything that everyone is doing at all times. It shows up in the manager who can't delegate for fear than no-one can take the task as seriously as them. 

2. The Superwoman/man

The superwoman/man often shows up as the workaholic. This person may feel inadequate relative to colleagues and continue to push themselves as hard as possible, regardless of the consequences on mental, physical and emotional health. I don't know about you, but I have worked in cultures that breed this behaviour in others. A workaholic leader pushes the pressure and expectation down to others until burnout is rife. They are relentless in their work approach and never want to be defeated or seen as weak, tired or less than. They might fall into people pleasing behaviours, always talking on more work or volunteering for the next opportunity. It is driven by their insecurities and often breaks relationships and shows up as unempathetic or unkind. Do you find that you get stressed when you aren't working and can't switch of from emails or have to take your laptop on holiday with you? Do you let work get in the way of your hobbies, interests or even special family moments? This might be a clue for you? Impostor workaholics are actually addicted to the validation that comes from working, not to the work itself.  They believe that I am worthy because I am working, regardless of whether that work is adding value or not.

3. The Natural Genius

The natural genius represents a person with imposter syndrome that not only struggles with perfectionism but also sets out to achieve lofty goals on their first try. Natural genius types don’t just judge themselves based on ridiculous expectations, they also judge themselves based on getting things right first time and as quickly as possible. If they don't master something straight away they believe that they are inadequate. These individuals feel unworthy, guilty and shameful if they cannot easily complete a task or achieve a goal on their first go.  Do you like to get straight A's, top scores or gold stars? Were you the clever one at school, getting praise when you achieved? Do you shy away from having a mentor or taking advice from others because you feel you should know the answer? Do you like to be the smartest person in the room? The natural genius is not a pleasant person to work with. They always want to be better than everyone else and may even pick holes in others ideas or opinions to make themselves appear better or smarter. They can be judgemental and condescending of others.

4. The Soloist

Where the natural genius is often in competition internally with a mentor or peer, The soloist has difficulty asking for help from anyone, even an expert or a team member. It’s okay to be independent, but not to the extent that you harm yourself and the team by trying do do it alone. Even though they feel like an imposter, they may feel that others are not as competent as themselves. They must prove that they are the best to feel secure. Do you tell yourself that you don't need help? Do you try to do everything yourself rather than asking for support or advice? The soloist is toxic for any team as they are anti-team in so many ways. They break trust and often create poorer results for it.

5. The Expert

Now these people are actually experts, but they don't own it. They never feels good enough despite being extremely knowledgeable, experienced or skilled. This often shows up in people who need one more qualification, or do one more course to feel competent. They feel like they are the least experienced in the room and must have the knowledge or the answer. They might not apply for jobs if they can't tick of every single requirement. Even if you have been on the team for some years, do you still refer to yourself as the newest member of the team? Sometimes the expert hides information or with holds from others in the belief that knowledge is power. Those with an open mindset will always want to learn more, but their driver is personal development and curiosity rather than a fear of inadequacy.