Behind the Mask: How to Tackle Challenges of Leadership Impostorism
Holmes, Timothy; Berghoff, Nora; Kark, Ronit
Authors
Tim Holmes timothy.g.holmes@durham.ac.uk
PGR Student Doctor of Philosophy
Nora Berghoff nora.berghoff@durham.ac.uk
Post Doctoral Research Associate
Ronit Kark
Contributors
Susanne Braun
Editor
Tiffany Keller Hansbrough
Editor
Gregory A. Ruark
Editor
Robert G. Lord
Editor
Rosalie J. Hall
Editor
Olga Epitropaki
Editor
Abstract
Are you struggling with the feeling that you do not meet the expectations others have of you as a leader? Do you sometimes worry that you will be exposed as a fraud in your managerial or leadership role? You may be experiencing leadership impostorism – a common and often masked psychological challenge that can impact leaders at any level. However, you are not alone. In this chapter we address the phenomenon of impostorism, why individuals experience it, its impact on leaders and organizations, and strategies to manage it. Drawing on empirical research, popular media, and practical recommendations augmented by our academic expertise, this chapter provides a step-by-step guide to reframe how you view the experience of impostorism. Using a self-reflection exercise and case study, readers can further understand their own experiences of impostorism and build their own ‘Impostor Playbook’ to explore and overcome it. Whether you are a new leader struggling to familiarize yourself with the pressures of leadership or an experienced professional fronting a new challenge, this chapter provides a valuable guide to navigate impostorism experiences and unmask your leadership potential.
Citation
Holmes, T., Berghoff, N., & Kark, R. (2024). Behind the Mask: How to Tackle Challenges of Leadership Impostorism. In S. Braun, T. K. Hansbrough, G. A. Ruark, R. G. Lord, R. J. Hall, & O. Epitropaki (Eds.), Navigating Leadership: Evidence-Based Strategies for Leadership Development. Routledge
Online Publication Date
Aug 2, 2024
Publication Date
Aug 2, 2024
Deposit Date
Oct 21, 2024
Publisher
Routledge
Book Title
Navigating Leadership: Evidence-Based Strategies for Leadership Development
