Your imposter syndrome is lying to you.

“Feeling a little uncomfortable with your skills is a sign of learning, and continuous learning is what the tech industry thrives on! It’s important to seek out environments where you are supported, but where you have the chance to be uncomfortable and learn new things.” – Vanessa Hurst, Co-Founder of Girl Develop It

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Hey Reader,

You probably recognize yourself in one (or all!) of the following situations:

You're eyeing a senior role, heart racing with excitement. Your finger hovers over the 'apply' button, but you can't bring yourself to click it. The fear of being "found out" as a fraud overwhelms you, even though you've crushed it in your current role for years.

After acing rounds of interviews for your dream job, you sit across from the hiring manager, palms sweaty, as they ask about your salary expectations. Your dream number is on the tip of your tongue, but you hear yourself quoting a figure far below what you know you're worth, and your heart sinks.

You spend hours scrolling through LinkedIn. By the end of the week, you're exhausted, and no closer to finding a role that excites you. The doubt creeps in: "Am I cut out for more?" The thought of another year in your current position fills you with dread, but the alternative seems terrifyingly uncertain.

If you're nodding right now, feeling a mix of relief ("It's not just me!") and frustration ("Will I ever overcome this?"), I want you to know something crucial: You're not alone.

You're experiencing imposter syndrome, a surprisingly common phenomenon among high-achieving women in tech who are seeking growth.

The Truth About Imposter Syndrome

First things first: Imposter syndrome isn't a sign that you're unqualified. It's often a sign that you're growing, challenging yourself, and pushing boundaries.

In other words, it's a sign you're doing something right.

Knowing that doesn't magically make it easier when you're staring at a job description, thinking, "Who am I kidding? I can't apply for this." The fear, the self-doubt, the anxiety – they're all very real, and they can be paralyzing.

But what if I told you that we could transform that self-doubt into your secret weapon?

Turning Imposter Syndrome on Its Head

Here are some actionable strategies to not just overcome imposter syndrome, but use it as fuel for your job search:

1- Document your wins.

• Create a "brag bank" on your phone or computer.

• Every time you solve a tricky problem, receive praise or learn something new, jot it down.

• Review this file before interviews or when updating your CV.

• Why it works: It creates a tangible record of your achievements, making it harder for your brain to dismiss your successes.

2- Reframe your self-talk.

• Instead of "I'm not qualified for this role," try "This role will challenge me to grow."

• Replace "They'll figure out I don't belong" with "I bring a unique perspective to the table."

• Practice this reframing daily, especially when looking at job postings.

• Why it works: It shifts your mindset from fear of failure to excitement for growth.

3- Tailor your story with confidence.

• Identify 3-5 key experiences that showcase your skills and growth.

• For each experience, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to craft a compelling narrative.

• Adapt these stories to align with different job requirements.

• Why it works: It gives you an arsenal of concrete examples that prove your capabilities, boosting your confidence in interviews.

4- Embrace the power of 'yet.’

• When you catch yourself thinking "I'm not good enough," add "...yet" to the end.

• Use this technique when reviewing job requirements. Don't have a skill? You don't have it "yet."

• Why it works: It fosters a growth mindset, reminding you that skills can be learned and developed.

5- Build your support squad.

• Identify 3-5 people in your network who believe in you.

• Share your career goals and job search progress with them regularly.

• Ask them to remind you of your strengths when self-doubt creeps in.

• Why it works: It provides external validation and perspective when your own view is clouded by self-doubt.

Your Next Step

Remember, that voice telling you you're not good enough? It's lying. You've got this, and I'm here to help you prove it to yourself.

Here's to your next chapter of growth and success!

Talk to you soon,

Jenn

P.S. I'm celebrating my 1-year business anniversary, and I want you to join in! I’m offering 25% off both of my programs:

• One-on-One Personalized Coaching - Perfect for those seeking intimate, hyper-personalized strategy coaching at their own pace.

• Group Coaching Sessions - Ideal for individuals who thrive in a community setting and enjoy collaborative learning.

Together, we'll:

• Personalise my proven THRIVE method to help you land your next job in Tech.

• (Re)build your confidence so you will start getting interviews.

• Refine and practice your career story in interviews to land job offers.

• Prepare for your next salary negotiations so you get PAID.

Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your future. Choose the program that fits your style and let's transform your tech career.

Reply to this email with “anniversary” to learn more and book your first session with me!