Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Insights from Our International Women’s Day Workshops

Tackling self-doubt together in our Thames and Lisbon Refineries

To mark International Women’s Day, our Human Resources teams at our Thames and Lisbon Refineries hosted workshops on overcoming Imposter Syndrome.

These sessions formed part of a full week of activities organised by the European Women’s Support Network, which also included a special canteen menu at Thames Refinery showcasing recipes by female chefs and a newsletter featuring interviews with six colleagues on the impact of women on their careers and about the importance of this year’s International Women’s Day theme “Give to Gain”.

Imposter Syndrome is the internal experience of believing that you are not as competent as others perceive you to be. While anyone can experience it, research shows that women report feelings of self-doubt at higher rates than men. Left unchecked, Imposter Syndrome can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress, strained working relationships and, in some cases, burnout.

The goal of the workshops was to create a supportive environment where colleagues could openly discuss experiences of self-doubt, anxiety and low self-esteem and learn practical strategies to challenge negative self-talk.

“I always thought I was alone in feeling Imposter Syndrome, but speaking to others made me realise this wasn’t true. I wanted to organise these workshops so other colleagues could realise this too and overcome Imposter Syndrome together.” Nicola Bamber, Warehouse Department Manager and Co-Chair of the European Women’s Support Network.

During the sessions, colleagues reflected on past moments where they had experienced Imposter Syndrome, how they had approached those situations, and how they might respond differently in the future. Many were struck by how similar their experiences were, despite differences in job roles, backgrounds and personalities. By exploring the thought patterns that fuel self-doubt, participants were encouraged to reframe these moments with greater compassion and confidence.

A major benefit of the workshop was the chance for female colleagues to meet and network with peers from different parts of the business. This was a key ambition for Rebecca Collis, Environment Manager and Co‑Chair of the European Women’s Support Network:

“When Nicola and I became Co-Chairs of the European Women’s Support Network, I wanted to help create safe spaces for employees to talk about their issues and build new networks, I’m pleased we could work with the HR team to deliver this training session and all the other activities we have organised for International Women’s Day.”

We are proud of all our colleagues who continue to build supportive, inclusive workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.