BUSINESS

When You Know You Weren’t the First Choice for Your New Role

Four ways to make the most of the opportunity — and keep imposter syndrome at bay.

March 21, 2024

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  • It’s common to experience imposter feelings when taking on a new, more senior role. That negative self-talk can feel justified when you were originally rejected from the job. But you can use this second chance as an opportunity to become a better leader. The author presents four strategies to quiet the imposter syndrome voices in your head if you weren’t the first pick for the job.

    Experiencing imposter syndrome is common for people taking on more senior roles. But what if the self-doubt feels justified because you’re stepping into a role that you originally got rejected from?

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    • Alisa Cohn is an executive coach who specializes in work with Fortune 500 companies and prominent startups, including Google, Microsoft, DraftKings, Venmo, and Etsy. She is the author of From Start-Up to Grown-Up. You can download her 5 scripts to handle delicate conversations here. Learn more at AlisaCohn.com.



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  • New!


    HBR Learning

    Career Management Course

    Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Career Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.

    What’s your next career move? Learn how to set yourself up for success.

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