Women in Convenience Opinion: dealing with imposter syndrome

All retailers can feel imposter syndrome at times – they’re not alone in it. The key to overcoming it is your attitude, and I would know about that. 

I’ve felt imposter syndrome when I’ve felt like I’m completely out of my depth. I never went to business school; I started working in retail after school when I was 14 and haven’t really left. Anything I’ve learned has been on the job. It means I have a lot of experience on the practical side. 

However, when it comes down to the facts and figures of it all, I sometimes feel I shouldn’t be here, but it’s all about determination, and not giving up. Women in Convenience has really helped me in this area as well, and shows you you’re not alone. It helps you see you have got something to say, and that people want to listen to you. 

Women in Convenience: Meet the ambassadors

Working in a male-dominated sector, means you can also feel out of place – but it’s a learning curve, even after 40 years in the sector. It’s a constant fight, but I’m up for a fight. Everybody’s got a right to be in this business. I also really advise retailers to attend events – getting a bit of distance from the counter can give you a refreshed perspective. You can learn a lot, and also realise that others feel the same.

We’re all working to improve, and making great progress.