WOMEN IN TECH BLOG SERIES: THRIVING IN TECH: A CFO'S INSIGHTS ON OVERCOMING IMPOSTER SYNDROME
Written By: Hannah Xiu, Chief Financial Officer, Vertosoft
Hannah Xiu serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Vertosoft, bringing over 15 years of expertise in supporting Public Sector clients throughout the government acquisition lifecycle. As a seasoned leader and a key member of Vertosoft’s executive team, Hannah oversees the company’s finance, HR, and operations while spearheading strategic initiatives to drive growth and innovation.
Prior to joining Vertosoft, Hannah held key leadership roles at multibillion-dollar organizations within the Public Sector IT market. She has been instrumental in shaping financial strategies that prioritize operational excellence and long-term success. Beyond her work at Vertosoft, Hannah actively supports women entrepreneurs as a member of the Board of Advisors for a Women Owned Small Business in the federal cybersecurity market.
In my journey as a CFO navigating the dynamic and fast-paced tech industry, I’ve witnessed the remarkable advancements that continue to transform our world. Yet, beyond the excitement of innovation lies a quieter, more personal challenge faced by many women in this field: imposter syndrome. This pervasive feeling of self-doubt can hinder both personal growth and collective progress of our industry. In this blog, I’ll draw from my experiences to offer strategies and insights for overcoming imposter syndrome, empowering women to excel in their careers and make meaningful contributions to the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Understanding Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling of self-doubt, inadequacy, and fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evident accomplishments. It often manifests in high-achieving individuals who struggle to internalize their success. Women, particularly in male-dominated fields like tech, are disproportionately affected by imposter syndrome. The pressure to excel and prove oneself can exacerbate these feelings, leading to self-sabotaging behaviors and limiting career progression.
Recognizing the Signs
To combat imposter syndrome, it is essential to recognize its signs. These may include:
- Attributing success to luck rather than skill
- Feeling unworthy of praise
- Overworking to compensate for perceived inadequacies
- Avoiding new challenges due to fear of failure
- Comparing oneself unfavorably to peers
Acknowledging these symptoms is the first step towards addressing and mitigating their impact.
Embracing Your Achievements
Take time to reflect on your accomplishments and own your success. Document milestones – big and small – and revisit them during moments of doubt. Celebrating wins with colleagues can turn self-doubt into shared pride, creating a culture of mutual encouragement.
Developing a Support Network
Building a strong support network is invaluable. Seek mentors, colleagues, or friends who uplift and guide you. Joining professional organizations dedicated to women in tech and connecting with other successful women in the industry have personally enriched my perspective and provided insights that helped me overcome challenges. One of the most empowering conversations I ever had was with a mentor who reminded me, “You’ve earned your seat at the table – use it.”
Seeking Professional Development
Investing in professional development is a proactive approach to overcoming imposter syndrome. Pursue opportunities for continuous learning, whether through workshops, courses, or certifications. Expanding your knowledge and skill set not only enhances your competence but also reinforces your sense of self-worth.
Challenging Negative Self-Talk
Reframe your inner dialogue when doubts creep in. Instead of thinking, “I’m not qualified,” affirm, “I have the expertise to succeed here.” Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a peer. This shift in mindset has helped me approach challenges with confidence.
Setting Realistic Goals
Setting realistic and achievable goals can help alleviate the pressure and anxiety associated with imposter syndrome. Break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate your progress along the way and recognize that setbacks are a natural part of growth. By focusing on incremental achievements, you can build confidence and reduce feelings of inadequacy.
Advocating for Yourself
Advocating for yourself is essential in overcoming imposter syndrome. Don’t shy away from seeking recognition for your contributions. Communicate your accomplishments confidently in performance reviews and meetings. If you struggle with self-promotion, consider partnering with a mentor or coach who can help you articulate your strengths effectively.
Creating Inclusive Work Environments
As a leader, I believe strongly in fostering inclusivity and creating spaces where women feel valued and heard. Open dialogue about challenges like imposter syndrome can lead to better support structures, benefiting the entire team. Advocating for diversity and equity has shown me the power of collective growth.
Final Thought
Imposter syndrome is a formidable challenge, but it is not insurmountable. By acknowledging its impact and taking deliberate steps to confront it, we can unlock our potential and build careers fueled by confidence and resilience. The path to overcoming self-doubt is neither simple nor linear, but it’s a journey worth embarking on. Every achievement we embrace and every barrier we break serves as inspiration for those who follow, creating a stronger, more inclusive tech industry for future generations.