What Imposter Syndrome Sounds Like (& How to Talk Back to It)

Imposter syndrome has a very particular voice. It's quiet enough to sound reasonable, but loud enough to stop you in your tracks. If you've ever caught yourself thinking "I've been out of the workforce too long" or "everyone else seems so much more confident than me," you've heard it. And you're far from alone.

For parents and carers returning to work, imposter syndrome can feel especially persistent. But here's the thing: those thoughts aren't facts. Once you know how to recognise them, you can start talking back.

"I've been out of the workforce too long."

Talk back: The skills you've built during your time away are real and valuable. Managing a household, coordinating schedules, problem-solving on the fly, communicating under pressure - these aren't gaps in your experience. They're evidence of it. Employers increasingly recognise this, and so should you.

"Everyone else knows what they're doing and I don't."

Talk back: What you're seeing on the outside rarely reflects what's happening on the inside. Most people in new or challenging situations feel exactly the same way, they've just had more practice at looking like they don't. You belong in the room just as much as anyone else.

"What if I apply and they realise I'm not good enough?"

Talk back: What if you apply and they realise you're exactly what they've been looking for? Imposter syndrome always presents the worst case scenario as the most likely one, but that's not how reality works. You don't have to be perfect to be the right fit.

"I used to be good at this, but I've probably forgotten everything."

Talk back: Skills don't disappear… they wait. With a little refreshing and practice, what you built before your break comes back faster than you expect. You're not starting from zero. You're starting from experience.

If you do want a little extra support getting back up to speed, Parent Pathways offers access to short courses or training to help you develop new skills or dust off the ones you already have. We’re always here to help you move forward feeling ready.

"I don't deserve to take up space in this industry anymore."

Talk back: You absolutely do. Your perspective, your experience, and everything life has taught you since you stepped back - all of it has value. The industry needs people like you, and the world of work is better for having you in it.

Imposter syndrome is common, but it doesn't have to be in charge. The more you recognise its voice, the easier it becomes to answer back — and the quieter it gets over time. If imposter syndrome has been holding you back, our team would love to help you find your confidence again. Our Parent Pathways team offers personalised support to eligible parents and carers of young children.

Ask your Employment Plus mentor for more information or call us on 136 123.