I got promoted but I feel like a fraud
I just got promoted to senior developer at my company. Everyone keeps saying congratulations but I feel like I don't deserve it. I feel like any day now they're going to realize I'm not as good as they think. How do I deal with this?
1 Answer(s)
What you're feeling has a name — imposter syndrome — and it affects about 70% of people at some point. The fact that you feel this way is actually a good sign. Real frauds don't worry about being found out.
Here's the truth: you were promoted because someone evaluated your work and decided you're ready. That's not a mistake. Your company doesn't promote people hoping they'll figure it out — they promote people who are already doing the job.
The best way to beat imposter syndrome is to keep a "win folder." Every time someone compliments your work, you finish a hard project, or you solve a tough problem — screenshot it and save it. On bad days, read through it. Your brain is lying to you when it says you don't belong.
Also, talk to other senior developers. Ask them how they felt when they got promoted. I guarantee you every single one of them felt exactly what you're feeling right now. You're not behind — you're right where you're supposed to be.