Impostor thoughts: helpful in public, costly in private?

Research is reframing how we understand impostor syndrome. A 2022 study by Dr Basima Tewfik at MIT Sloan found that people experiencing impostor thoughts often perform better in interpersonal settings. They listen more actively, ask sharper questions and build stronger rapport—traits linked to higher evaluations from peers and clients.

But this enhanced performance comes with a personal cost. The same individuals often report lower self-esteem, a greater reliance on external validation and difficulty sustaining motivation in solo work. The research suggests that while impostor feelings can act as a short-term motivator, they may quietly erode wellbeing over time.

Meanwhile, a 2024 scoping review in Frontiers in Psychology analysed 31 intervention studies and concluded that structured support, particularly mentoring, education and peer-based approaches, can reduce the chronic strain of impostorism.

For coaches, leaders and psychologists, the message is nuanced: impostor thoughts aren't simply harmful or helpful. They can drive outward success while quietly draining confidence. Recognising both sides is key to meaningful support.

Tewfik, B. A. (2022). The Impostor Phenomenon Revisited: Examining the Relationship between Workplace Impostor Thoughts and Interpersonal Effectiveness at Work Academy of Management Journal, Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2020.1627

Para, E., Dubreuil, P., Miquelon, P., & Martin‑Krumm, C. (2024). Interventions addressing the impostor phenomenon: a scoping review. Frontiers in Psychology, 15, Article 1360540. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1360540