Psychological Safety // Beyond Coding Podcast #32 - Patrick Akil with Gitte Klitgaard

Personal Insights

Gitte Klitgaard shares her personal experiences with imposter syndrome, highlighting its presence even in safe environments. She notes that up to 70% of the western population will experience imposter syndrome at some point, and it can manifest in various ways, such as doubting one's abilities despite evidence of success 1. Patrick Akil emphasizes the importance of feedback in overcoming these feelings, suggesting that conversations with others can boost confidence 1.

I did get good feedback and also good negative feedback. So to say where people are like, I would like to see you more present in the organization and not just see you in our one on ones, which is awesome feedback and makes me happy that people feel safe enough to tell me instead of just thinking it.

--- Gitte Klitgaard

Receiving both positive and constructive feedback is crucial for personal growth and maintaining a sense of belonging in any environment.

   

Supportive Environments

Addressing imposter syndrome requires a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves. Patrick Akil discusses the importance of navigating workplace dynamics with confidence, even if it means asking seemingly ignorant questions 2. He stresses that if an environment doesn't support this openness, it might not be the right fit for personal growth. Gitte Klitgaard adds that unsafe environments can exacerbate imposter syndrome, causing skilled individuals to doubt their abilities 2.

It really feeds into kind of the imposter syndrome in that way, right, where you are skilled enough for your position and the responsibilities and the accountability that you have, but because the environment is not safe, you kind of doubt yourself and your self confidence kind of takes a hit or a few.

--- Patrick Akil

Creating a psychologically safe workplace is essential for reducing self-doubt and fostering confidence among team members.