281: How Managers Accidentally Fuel Imposter Syndrome

Are you unintentionally fueling imposter syndrome in your team?

In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O’Brien dives deep into the critical role leaders play in either alleviating or exacerbating imposter syndrome within their teams. Drawing on her years of experience, Aoife unpacks what imposter syndrome really is, why it persists, even among top performers, and how well-meaning leadership behaviours can sometimes make it worse. She candidly shares her own experience with imposter syndrome and highlights the common workplace triggers, from being “the only one” in a group to facing new challenges or increased visibility. This episode is practical, research-backed, and filled with actionable steps for leaders who want to create an environment where everyone can thrive.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

• Common behaviours linked to imposter syndrome: Not speaking up, people-pleasing, overworking, and reluctance to pursue new roles or opportunities.
• The broader business impact: Imposter syndrome can lead to burnout, reduced innovation, lack of diverse thinking, disengagement, hidden talent, and higher staff attrition.
• What leaders can do: Provide clarity around expectations, recognise and proactively give positive feedback, share your own vulnerabilities, and create genuine psychological safety.

Related Topics Covered:

Psychological Safety, Personal Responsibility, Workplace Culture

 Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:

• Website 
• LinkedIn 
• YouTube 

Related Episodes You’ll Love:

Episode 77: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Igniting Empowerment with Aoife O’Brien

Episode 131: How much Imposter Syndrome Costs You with Aoife O’Brien

Episode 223: Imposter Syndrome: The Invisible Barrier to Workplace Success

About Happier at Work®

Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive.

If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®.

YOUTUBE SHOWNOTES

Imposter Syndrome Triggers | Happier at Work Podcast with Aoife O’Brien

Welcome to another powerful solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, hosted by Aoife O'Brien, career and culture strategist for People First Leaders in global organisations. In this episode, Aoife dives deep into imposter syndrome at work, exploring how leaders can unintentionally drive imposter syndrome within their teams and what steps they can take to create a more supportive, psychologically safe workplace.

Key Topics Covered:

• What is imposter syndrome and how does it show up at work?
• The common behaviours associated with imposter syndrome:...