Imposter syndrome is a common problem among business leaders. Leaders often feel incompetent to handle their roles despite years of experience and education. As a result, they experience self-doubt, fear failure, and discount success.

CIOs are especially likely to experience imposter syndrome due to their more significant role in the boardroom. They are being called in to make decisions that may go beyond their technical expertise. However, with some knowledge and confidence, they can overcome their fears and establish themselves as successful company leaders.

Why CIOs are Spending More Time in the Boardroom

As CIO, you can expect to spend more time in the boardroom. Here are some statistics to consider:

• 50% of CIOs say their board expects them to deliver continuous innovation
• 80% of CIOs predict they will become more involved in business strategies
• 57% of CIOs say a majority of their tasks include building and operating new digital platforms
• 77% of CIOs spend more time selling ideas to the board

Modern technology is becoming integrated into every aspect of business operations. It improves efficiency, cuts costs, improves product and service quality, and increases customer satisfaction. As such, there’s rarely a boardroom conversation that doesn’t end with the question, what technology can we use to support these goals?

That’s where the CIO comes in. CIOs are expected to be familiar with the technology that supports business goals. They play a crucial role in identifying systems that make companies more efficient.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome in the Boardroom

Applying Hard Skills

Overcoming imposter syndrome requires developing hard and soft skills. Fortunately, CIOs already have most of the hard skills at their disposal. They just need to figure out how to apply them to a boardroom environment.

For example:

• Familiarity with Company Goals: CIOs must be familiar with company goals. Likely, they already have some handle on the organization’s larger goals. However, they may not know how they apply within specific departments. CIOs must meet with various department leaders to understand what they seek to boost efficiency.
• Research Technology: Researching is likely already a massive part of a CIO’s job. They must be on top of the latest technology to determine which suits their organization best. In a boardroom setting, various executives may ask them about the specific technology that will help their department move forward. CIOs should be prepared with the answers.
• Avoid Technical Jargon: Other executives may not be familiar with technical jargon. Avoid using it in boardroom communications to facilitate understanding and promote transparency.
• Learn How to Sell: You may be used to being the ruler of your domain in an inner-departmental atmosphere, but once you reach the boardroom, your decisions may be questioned. Prepare to sell executives on your technology recommendations, backing them with graphs and statistics that prove their effectiveness.
• Know What’s Important: Company goals dictate technology priorities and vary among organizations. However, most companies are focused on cybersecurity, digital transformation, business continuity and resilience, and data strategy, in that order. Be prepared to present innovations that can move your company forward while keeping an eye on emerging trends.

Developing Soft Skills

Developing various soft skills will also help you overcome imposter syndrome. For instance, you may:

• Engage in Mindful Meditation: Mindful meditation lets you observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
• Positive Affirmations: Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your accomplishments to maintain a positive attitude.
• Practice Self-Reflection: Dedicate time for introspection to identify and challenge negative thought processes. Journaling can be a valuable self-reflection process.
• Build a Support Network: Imposter syndrome is a common issue among leaders. You may find the support you need through peer support groups and mentorship programs. CIOs should also openly communicate with their teams about their challenges to adopt a more comfortable boardroom setting.
• Set Realistic Goals: Leaders who set themselves up for perfection will experience failure that can worsen imposter syndrome. Instead, they should set realistic and attainable goals, acknowledge mistakes as part of a more significant journey, and focus on progress.

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