Harriette Cole: How can I shake off my impostor syndrome in this new job?

Many of my co-workers didn't have to work during college or had fancy internships.

DEAR HARRIETTE: I worked in the service industry during high school and college to fund my education, and I recently graduated and started my first job in a competitive corporate environment.

I’ve always been ambitious and eager to prove myself, but I find that I often struggle with self-doubt and impostor syndrome.

Despite receiving praise from my team and supervisors for my innovative ideas and dedication, I constantly fear that I’m not as talented or experienced as my peers, many of whom had fancy internships or didn’t work during college. This insecurity affects my confidence during client meetings and creative brainstorming sessions.

How can I overcome these feelings of inadequacy to fully embrace my role and excel in my career?

— Ambitious New Professional

DEAR AMBITIOUS NEW PROFESSIONAL: The best way I know to get rid of low self-confidence is to adopt an attitude of service in all of the work that you do.

You have experience already in the service industry, so draw upon that. Approach your work as solving a problem and serving the moment. Prepare carefully and thoroughly so that you know the material and are ready to participate at any given engagement.

Rather than presenting yourself from the perspective of how great you are — or not — focus on the content of your work and how your delivery will positively impact others. That shift in approach can transform your feelings about yourself.

Practice at home before any presentation you are going to give at work. Stand in front of a full-length mirror and recite your presentations, review your idea pitches, scrutinize your outfit. Take the time to do a thorough self-review before you walk into the office.

Study your industry so that you are constantly learning. Pay attention to current events, and think about how they relate to your work.

Believe your team members when they praise you. Accept their compliments wholeheartedly, and be generous in praising them when they do well.

DEAR HARRIETTE: I really enjoy reading your advice. I find it practical, and I find you knowledgeable! I just wanted to make you aware, if you weren’t already, that in some states, the term “nutritionist” is not regulated in any way.

In my own state, I could call myself a nutritionist, even without any background in nutrition or health. In Washington, as well, nutritionists are not regulated, though insurance coverage may vary based on their qualifications. Dietitians, however, are necessarily board-certified.

In this case, “Seeking Balance in Seattle” should seek out a dietitian, though of course everything else about your advice still stands. Thank you for your time!

— Clarification

DEAR CLARIFICATION: Thank you for that note. It is very important for someone to get dietary help from a medical professional.

As we know, there are tons of companies selling supplements and individuals offering advice who may not be qualified to do so. To all needing help with eating, please research carefully to find a person who is prepared to help you.

Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.