You know that feeling when you start a new role, market or agency and you suddenly think: do they realise I have no idea what I’m doing?

If you answered yes, that’s imposter syndrome. And if you work in recruitment, chances are you’ve met it more than once.

Whether you are brand new to the job, transitioning into a different market, or just starting somewhere new - it’s that voice in your head telling you that everyone else has it figured out and you’re just winging it.

But don’t worry… most of us are winging it at least a little bit!

So why does it show up so much more in recruitment?

Well, recruitment is a weird and wonderful job where one minute you’re talking to a director about their hiring requirements, and next your inbox is flooded with undeliverables.

You’re expected to be confident, knowledgeable, resilient, commercial, and on top of a dozen things at once… and that’s just before lunch!

So, if you feel a bit out of your depth when you’re starting out (or starting over), you’re not broken. You’re just human.

Things Imposter Syndrome Tells You:

“You’re not as good as your colleague.”

“You asked a silly question and now they know you don’t belong here.”

“You can’t possibly call clients yet; you’re still figuring out how to write a decent job ad.”

Honestly? All lies. But believable ones.

So, what actually helps?

1. Remember that everyone starts slightly clueless:

That top biller? They once didn’t know how to work the CRM.

2. Ask the question:

You’re not annoying, you’re learning. Most people would rather explain something than have you sit there silently panicking about it and possibly getting it wrong.

3. Celebrate those tiny wins:

Made a tough call? That’s a win. Got some useful feedback? Also a win. Small wins = big progress over time.

4. Don’t compare your start to someone else’s middle:

Especially not if they’ve been in the market longer or had more training – everyone is on their own journey.

5. Confidence is key:

Sometimes you’ve got to speak with confidence before you fully feel it and each with each call, your confidence will grow.

Final Thought

Imposter syndrome is loud, but it’s not always right and you’re not the only one feeling it.

You’re just growing, learning, getting knocked back, getting back up, and doing the job.

So, if you’re in that “oh god I hope no one finds out I’m clueless” stage… welcome. You’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

And honestly? You’re doing better than you think.

Written by Olivia Davies - Talent Acquisition & Culture Lead

Photo by Олег Мороз on Unsplash