How Imposter Syndrome is Costing Workers 10 Full Days a Year

Imposter syndrome is more than just a personal struggle—it’s a significant workplace issue that negatively impacts productivity, morale, and even recruitment costs. According to new research from the Executive Development Network (EDN), employees in the UK who suffer from imposter syndrome lose up to 10 full days of productivity per year.

This article breaks down the key findings from EDN’s report, Hidden Expenses: The Business Impact of Imposter Syndrome, and explores solutions to help organisations address this silent but costly challenge.

Imposter Syndrome’s Toll on Productivity and Mental Health

A Third of Workers See Performance Drop

Imposter syndrome, the persistent feeling of self-doubt and inadequacy despite evident success, affects 32% of employees’ work performance. Many individuals report struggling with the belief that they aren’t as skilled or deserving as their colleagues perceive them to be. These feelings directly translate into lost productivity, missed opportunities, and, ultimately, financial losses for businesses.

Stress Leads to Time Off Work

The impact goes beyond productivity. On average, individuals suffering from imposter syndrome take one extra day off work annually due to stress and anxiety. Younger employees, particularly Gen Z, are even more affected, with this group taking 2.6 extra days off per year.

Burnout is Commonplace

Over half (53%) of the UK workforce reports experiencing stress, anxiety, or burnout related to imposter syndrome at least once a month. For more than a quarter of employees (27%), these feelings surface weekly. The emotional strain is particularly high among LGBTQ+ individuals, who are 80% more likely to feel this way weekly compared to their heterosexual colleagues. Women, too, are disproportionately affected, being 45% more likely than men to experience these feelings daily.

Read More: Burnout: How to keep your staff sane while working remotely 

The Hidden Recruitment Costs of Imposter Syndrome

Beyond productivity, imposter syndrome is a key driver of employee turnover. The research highlights that 12% of job resignations are directly linked to imposter syndrome, while it influences over a quarter (26%) of quitting decisions.

This hidden cost of recruitment and onboarding new employees puts additional financial strain on businesses. Failing to address the root causes of imposter syndrome means organisations risk a perpetual cycle of turnover and lost potential.

Read More: Understanding Job Recruitment Assessments

Insights From Industry Leaders

Mike Worley, Managing Director at EDN, underscores the business risks:

“Imposter syndrome isn’t just a personal challenge; it’s a hidden business risk that can seriously affect performance and profitability. This report highlights the critical need for businesses to create environments where imposter syndrome is openly addressed and reduced.”

Cathryn Moses-Stone, Head of Policy and Impact at the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), adds:

“As managers, we play a key role in helping employees navigate [imposter syndrome] by creating an open, supportive environment where they feel comfortable sharing their doubts… We need to remind them that self-doubt is a normal part of growth, and their work is genuinely valued.”

Strategies to Combat Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace

EDN’s report provides actionable recommendations for businesses looking to address imposter syndrome and foster a confident, resilient workforce. Key strategies include:

1. Upskilling Managers

Provide leadership training that equips managers with the tools to help employees overcome self-doubt and create a supportive work culture.

2. Reward and Recognition Programs

Implement fair and meaningful recognition systems aligned with company values to acknowledge and celebrate employee achievements.

3. Wellbeing Initiatives

Offer stress management and mental health support, such as wellness workshops or access to professional counselling.

4. Mentoring Programs

Encourage mentorship within the workplace to provide guidance, share experiences, and build confidence among employees dealing with imposter syndrome.

Building a More Supportive Workplace

Imposter syndrome might be a silent challenge, but its effects are loud and clear—lost productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher employee turnover. By fostering environments where employees feel valued and supported, businesses can unlock their teams’ full potential.

At EDN, the focus is on empowering leaders with the right tools and training to build confidence within their teams. With targeted strategies, organisations can address imposter syndrome and ensure their workforce not only survives but thrives.