24/07/2023
Imposter syndrome, as defined in the Cambridge dictionary, is ‘the feeling that your achievements are not real or that you do not deserve praise or success’, often seen in women.
Those who suffer belittle their own performance, downplay their own success, and experience crippling self-doubt. This makes them unlikely to pursue positions within the workforce, that they are very able and qualified to excel within, out of fear of not living up to expectations.
This mentality, perpetrated by a society where women are not always encouraged or supported to reach their full potential, as evidenced by the gender pay gap and the underrepresentation of women within senior roles, leads to talent being wasted or missed.
This is particularly true for male dominated industries, much like the private security industry, and that’s why Bold is on a mission to ‘Stop the Imposter’!
We are launching a campaign to empower women, and anyone suffering from imposter syndrome, to go for that role or promotion or to try out our industry.
Here’s what John Lambert, our Managing Director, has to say;
"Many of us experience imposter syndrome in our lives, however throughout my career I have often heard female colleagues say "I'd never get that job" or "I'm not experienced/qualified/skilled enough" yet then seen lower qualified, less experienced males placed into the role. Some of the best, most inspirational colleagues I've worked with in security are female. Thankfully the industry is improving with lots of EDI movements, but there is still more to be done.
It doesn't take much for leaders in the industry to encourage our female colleagues to put themselves forward, create opportunities for them to thrive, and build their confidence up to reduce the imposter syndrome effect."
Keep a look out for regular updates on how we’re doing and what we’ve been up to!