So, you landed the job. You smiled through orientation, made it through awkward intros, and now… you’re low-key panicking, thoughts racing. “Why did they hire me?” “They’re going to figure out I have no idea what I’m doing.” “I don’t belong here.”
Sound familiar? You’re experiencing imposter syndrome in a new job—that imaginary unwanted coworker that claims workspace in your brain, messing with your confidence.
Whether you’re fresh out of school, switching industries, or stepping into a role that stretches you, feeling a little (or a lot) like a fraud is completely normal—but that doesn’t mean you should let it run the show.
In this article, we’ll talk about how to overcome imposter syndrome in a new job—with actual strategies that go beyond “just believe in yourself.” (Because if it were that easy, you wouldn’t be reading this.)
What is imposter syndrome, anyway?
Imposter syndrome is that persistent feeling that you’re not as capable as others think you are—and that any moment now, you’ll be “found out.” It doesn’t mean you’re actually underqualified. In fact, it usually shows up when you’ve worked hard, earned your spot, and are stepping into something new and exciting.
Imposter syndrome in a new job is especially common because, well, everything is new. You don’t know the systems. You don’t speak the acronyms. You’re still figuring out where the coffee machine is. Your brain is basically whisper-shouting: “Everyone else gets it. You’re just pretending.”
How to get over imposter syndrome at a new job
If you’re dealing with imposter syndrome when starting a new job, these strategies can help ground you, grow your confidence, and remind you that you do belong.
1. Get ahead of the unknowns—prep before day one
Imposter syndrome before a new job often stems from anxiety around the unknowns. So, control what you can. Reach out to HR or your recruiter and ask:
- What’s the dress code?
- What time should I arrive?
- Will I need anything on the first day?
- What’s the vibe of the office or team?
2. Channel your curiosity, not your inner critic
Curiosity builds confidence. If something doesn’t make sense in training, ask. If a policy feels confusing, ask. Many think that asking questions could be seen as a red flag by the employer, but it’s actually the opposite.
“I see a lot of people going through onboarding and they don’t take notes or ask questions,” says Sharon DeLay, a senior certified HR professional and owner of an HR consulting firm, GO-HR. “They are almost always the ones who come back needing to revisit the basics—and then maybe we do think they’re in a job they shouldn’t be in.”
So the next time your brain tells you, “Don’t ask that, they’ll think you’re clueless,” reframe it: Asking shows initiative and curiosity—not weakness. “Well-thought-out questions are ways to learn,” DeLay says.
Also note: There’s a difference between asking “why do we do it this way?” and saying “that’s not how we did it at my last job.” Let curiosity lead, not comparison. Remember, it’s not about proving you already know everything; it’s about showing you want to know more.
3. Be your own Google Doc
Trying to “just remember” everything during your first few weeks is a rookie mistake. Whether it’s how to log into a platform, your boss’s preferences, or who handles what, take notes. Lots of them. Not only does it save you from asking the same question three times, it shows you’re paying attention—and gives you something to fall back on when your brain short-circuits mid-task.
4. Set your communication style up for success
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by how your team communicates, don’t be afraid to ask for small, reasonable adjustments that help you thrive. If you’re more of a “visual learner” or need written instructions to feel confident, say so. You’re not being difficult—you’re being smart.
5. Do your homework—before and after you start
Want to feel more grounded in your new role? Research the company. Look through the website, scroll their socials, review the org chart (if you’ve got one). “During orientation and onboarding, if there was something you were expecting to take place and it didn’t, just ask if that is something that will be covered,” DeLay says. “All of this shows preparation, thoughtfulness, and goes a long way to build your confidence and the confidence of the employer.”
6. Let go of the need to be amazing right away
You’re new. You’re not supposed to know everything. You’re supposed to be learning. Give yourself permission to be in progress. That person on your team who’s crushing it? They were once the newbie, too. You’re just seeing them mid-journey.
Feeling imposter syndrome in a new job is normal—but it’s not permanent
That jittery, fish-out-of-water feeling won’t last forever. Imposter syndrome in a new job is something most people face. What matters is how you respond to it. Be curious. Be prepared. Be gentle with yourself. Just because it feels hard now doesn’t mean you’re failing. Your job is to show up, ask the questions, do the work, and let your growth speak louder than your doubt.