How to tackle imposter syndrome

Kate Pennell, Global Head of Brand and Marketing at Howden, shares her advice for tackling imposter syndrome. This interview took place at our event exploring 'How women in marketing can shatter the glass ceiling'.

Transcript

I think imposter syndrome is something that we all suffer from, and we need to reframe it. Reframing it won't make it go away, but I think people need to understand that we've been hired for a reason. We got that job because we have expertise and, generally, you'll be the person with the most expertise in that area in the boardroom. 

My old CEO at IBM used to say, "Growth and comfort can't coexist." Imposter syndrome is the embodiment of that. It is showing that you're growing, that you're stepping out of your comfort zone. So in a sense, embrace it and consider that it's actually about your progression.

Recently, I went to an event where a lovely 19-year-old young lady from the Philippines, who's part of the Formula 1 Academy, was speaking. She talked about how you shouldn't aim to fit in. What you want to do is to boldly stand out. So, I think that's what imposter syndrome gives us the opportunity to do—not to think about how we fit in with perhaps our new colleagues, but how we can really show our expertise and stand out. I think that's just a fantastic way of reframing imposter syndrome.

About Kate Pennell

Previously the Global Marketing Director at IBM, Kate is now Group Head of Brand and Marketing at Howden. Passionate about diversity, inclusion and community initiatives, throughout her career Kate has been on a variety of different women’s leadership councils and led several diversity initiatives. She is also a mentor to many and a trustee of the Royal Humane Society and SSAFA, the armed forces charity.

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