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Blog • • 3 minute read

Embracing Growth: Navigating Imposter Syndrome

Starting as an intern at World Wide Technology, I faced imposter syndrome but found strength in vulnerability. By sharing my fears and seeking advice, I gained confidence and realized that self-doubt is common. Embrace your journey, trust your abilities and let your actions speak louder than your doubts.

Gaining Understanding 

I started my journey at World Wide Technology (WWT) in the summer of 2023 as an Executive Briefing Center Marketing Intern. From the moment I joined, I was drawn to the company's culture, and I knew I wanted to continue my career here full-time. Growing up in Saint Louis, I had heard nothing but positive things about WWT, but I didn't truly grasp the depth of what makes the company so special until I experienced it firsthand.

After graduating from college, I joined the Associate Academy in June 2024. The Academy provided me with valuable insights into:

  • WWT's core values and behaviors
  • The value we bring to our customers through our capabilities
  • The impact we can make with our customer's business goals and challenges

 

Building Independence 

In October, I transitioned to the Strategy & Operations team, where I've been working on initiatives for high-performing teams (HPTs) in sales. 

I majored in public relations and minored in marketing, both of which are great foundations, but I lacked expertise in technology. Naturally, when I started my full-time career, imposter syndrome kicked in. I found myself questioning if I was good enough or smart enough to be there, worried that everyone around me was miles ahead in knowledge and experience. These doubts were with me from day one and continued to linger as I navigated the next steps in my career.

When I moved to the Strategy & Operations team, I was surrounded by incredibly experienced individuals who had a deep understanding of the company and its processes. This only intensified my feelings of self-doubt. I'm the type of person who feels like I need to know everything right away, and if I don't, I've failed. 

My work on the HPT initiative, which aims to standardize tools across the Central region's sales teams, has required me to present and network frequently. I've been in rooms full of people with more experience, which made me question if I belonged there. Again, WRONG.

Here is what I have learned. Instead of internalizing my fears, I needed to talk about them. I opened up to my peers, mentors, and bosses, and found something eye-opening. Everyone I spoke with had experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their career.

Imposter syndrome is common, and the key to overcoming it is acknowledging that you have to start somewhere. Embracing the fact that I'm early in my career and still have so much to learn has been liberating. I'll never know everything, but I can strive to be better every day. Talking to others who shared similar experiences helped me feel more secure in my role. It's okay to admit you're not an expert yet.  Vulnerability has actually made me stronger and more confident in my abilities.

By opening up and seeking advice from my colleagues, I've gained a sense of confidence and reduced the stress that comes with self-doubt. Working on the HPT tools has given me the opportunity to show what I've learned and prove that my value isn't determined by age or experience.

I feel fortunate to work at a company like WWT, where sharing experiences and supporting each other's growth is encouraged. It's a place that fosters not just professional development but personal growth as well.