Bank of America Legal Diversity Programme: Imposter Syndrome

Herbert Smith Freehills Podcasts

We are delighted to share a new instalment in our BofA Legal Diversity Programme Podcast series, in collaboration with Herbert Smith Freehills. This latest collaboration explores the topic of imposter syndrome, and its origins, impact and effect on professional life.
A 2021 article in the Harvard Business Review shone a light on issues with the term 'imposter syndrome', loosely defined as a lack of self-belief in one's capability. This has long been identified as an issue for women, and in particular – women of colour, and other minority groups, to overcome in professional life.
Moderator Alice Eady Ketchell, speaks with Bank of America colleagues Andreas Iacovou and Ana Maria Knott, along with Herbert Smith Freehills partners Kelesi Blundell, Simon Clarke and Marina Reason about their own reflections on the theme and experiences battling with imposter syndrome.
The conversation unpicks the term imposter syndrome: in telling women they have imposter syndrome, have we somehow created those feelings? What can organisations do to challenge the systems in place that exacerbate those feelings in women and minority groups in particular? Is a degree of self-doubt helpful?
Our leaders also share some of their own experiences of imposter syndrome and how they deal with days of low confidence or new challenges.
We hope you enjoy listening and reflecting on your own experiences.