The Underdog Advantage: Transforming Imposter Syndrome into Professional Power

You know what? It's completely normal to experience imposter syndrome in a new job. That nagging voice that whispers, "Do I really belong here?" can be loud enough on its own. But when you discover you weren't the first choice for the role? That volume gets cranked up to eleven.

Here's the thing – finding yourself in this position doesn't mean you don't deserve to be there. It simply means your journey to that seat was a bit different than you expected. And that's okay.

As someone who's coached countless accounting professionals through career transitions, I've seen this scenario play out more times than you might think. Even the most qualified bookkeepers and financial experts can feel like they're just pretending when they step into a new role – especially one they weren't initially selected for.

How to Rebuild Your Confidence

1. Clarify the Gaps with Your Manager

The uncertainty of not knowing why you weren't the first pick can be worse than the reality. Have a candid conversation with your manager about what was missing that didn't make you the obvious first choice. Project humility, curiosity, and confidence in this conversation. You might open with something like: "I'm excited about this role and committed to excelling in it. I'd love to know what you perceive as my gaps and what I can do to fill them." This approach shows you're self-aware, growth-oriented, and serious about succeeding.

2. Use What You Learn – Immediately

Some of the feedback may be difficult to hear, but it will be invaluable as you set out to prove yourself. Whether it's technical skills, industry knowledge, or soft skills that need development, create an action plan. Set targets and goals with your manager, and create a game plan to ensure you hit them. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment and helps transform perceived weaknesses into visible growth areas.

3. Promote Yourself with Your New Peers

Your colleagues may have their own perceptions about why you were hired. Don't leave this to chance – shape the narrative yourself. Set up informal, one-on-one meetings with key team members as soon as possible. Your goal is to introduce yourself—or reintroduce yourself—in the context of the new role. Share your background, your enthusiasm for the position, and your eagerness to collaborate. These conversations build allies and help others see you as a valuable addition to the team, regardless of whether you were the first choice or not.

Remember: Second Choice Doesn't Mean Second Best

Sometimes hiring decisions come down to specific circumstances, timing, or even budget considerations that have nothing to do with your capabilities. The person who was first choice might have had one particular skill or connection that initially put them ahead – but that doesn't diminish your overall value.

You're in the role now because someone saw your potential. Your job isn't to be the person they didn't hire – it's to be the best version of yourself in this position.

The most successful professionals I've worked with aren't necessarily those who were obvious first picks – they're the ones who approached each opportunity with genuine curiosity, commitment to growth, and the resilience to turn challenges into stepping stones.

Have you ever faced imposter syndrome in your professional journey? How did you overcome it? I'd love to hear your experiences in the comments.

Until Next Time,