Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Tech with Sheria Bess

Have you ever felt like a fraud despite your successes, that nagging voice whispering you're not truly worthy? If so, you're not alone. Many people, especially in tech, experience imposter syndrome–that persistent feeling of inadequacy despite success. Sheria Bess, Sr. Director of Security Compliance, understands this struggle firsthand. Even with a 2024 Women in Tech finalist nomination and a track record of mentoring successful women, Sheria still battled fear and self-doubt. Listen in as Sheria shares her personal journey with imposter syndrome and offers advice on how to overcome your inner critic and reach your full potential.

Tell us about your career journey and background in tech.

My career in technology began unexpectedly in the Marines, where I sought a challenge and the opportunity for higher education. While the experience was valuable, my true passion was ignited upon encountering a mainframe computer. This massive machine, humming with power, totally captivated me.

After my service, I entered the tech industry through hardware support, transitioning to networking to establish a solid foundation. Ultimately, I discovered my niche in information security, which felt like a continuation of my service in the Marines. 

These accomplishments culminated in my recognition as a finalist for the Women in Tech award in 2024. It felt surreal, a real recognition of everything I've worked for. My journey from the Marine Corps to the tech world has been defined by continuous learning, self-improvement, and collaboration. It all started with a simple question about a mainframe: "How does that work?" It's a question I'm still asking – and answering – every day.

When did you begin to experience imposter syndrome?

Imposter syndrome has been a constant companion throughout my tech journey, its subtle unease growing as my career progressed. This feeling was significantly amplified by my unconventional entry into the field, particularly the fact that I lacked a traditional college degree, unlike many of my colleagues. Being largely self-taught through online resources and a great deal of trial and error, the prevalence of advanced degrees among my peers often fueled a sense of inadequacy and a persistent fear of being exposed.

This manifested in several ways: downplaying achievements as mere luck, dismissing praise, and constantly worrying that any mistake would reveal that I am a fraud. Consequently, this anxiety and self-doubt extended beyond work, hindering my ability to fully enjoy my accomplishments and leading to persistent self-doubt about my capabilities.

Over time, recognizing imposter syndrome for the common psychological phenomenon it is has been a turning point, enabling me to better manage these feelings as an ongoing process and gradually build confidence in my skills and accomplishments.

What advice do you have for others struggling with imposter syndrome?

Embrace Your Authentic Self: Don't try to be someone you're not. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable assets, even if they're different from the "typical" tech professional. The more you embrace your authentic self, the more confident you'll become. 

Be Confident in Your Abilities: Confidence isn't about pretending you have all the answers. It's about believing in your ability to learn and grow. One of the biggest confidence killers is comparing yourself to others, especially in a field as competitive as tech. Everyone's journey is different. Someone else's success doesn't diminish your own. Instead of comparing, focus on your own progress. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small.

Set Clear and Achievable Goals: Setting clear, achievable goals is crucial. Break down big, overwhelming objectives into smaller, manageable steps. This makes the journey less daunting and gives you a sense of accomplishment as you tick things off your list. Having a roadmap, even if it changes along the way, provides direction and keeps you motivated.

Recognize The Power of Self-Awareness, Self-Compassion, and Support: Self-awareness is key to recognizing when imposter syndrome is creeping in. Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings. Once you recognize the negative self-talk, practice self-compassion. Be kind to yourself. Remember that everyone makes mistakes. And finally, don't be afraid to seek support. Talk to a mentor, a trusted colleague, or even a therapist. Building a support network is essential for navigating the challenges of imposter syndrome and building a successful career.

Instead of letting imposter syndrome paralyze me, I try to use it as motivation to keep learning and growing. It's a reminder that I'm pushing myself outside my comfort zone, which is ultimately where the real growth happens. Remember, your accomplishments are real and your skills are valuable. Your voice deserves to be heard. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back from achieving your dreams.

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