Why Do 71% of CEOS and Leaders Experience Imposter Syndrome?

Written by Lisa Sheerin, Executive Public Speaking Coach

Lisa works as an executive public speaking coach, actor, and fitness enthusiast. She is passionate about helping people overcome imposter syndrome and find their authentic voice to unlock career success in business and beyond. She is the founder of Speak Proud.

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You’re smart. You’ve got the experience. People call you a leader for a reason. But when it’s time to speak up, whether it’s a boardroom presentation or a keynote, your inner critic suddenly grabs the mic.

What if I mess it up?What if they realise I don’t know what I’m doing?What if I freeze and forget everything I meant to say?

Sound familiar?

You’re not alone.

Did you know that 71% of U.S. CEOS experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers?

These are people who have built multi-million dollar companies, led teams through chaos, made make-or-break decisions, yet they still wrestle with self-doubt.

So, why does it happen?

And more importantly, how can you shift it?

The myth: “Confident speakers are just born that way.”

One of the most common beliefs I hear in my executive confidence coaching is this: great speakers are just naturals.

They think if they don’t feel confident already, they’re not cut out for public speaking.

But here’s the truth:

• Confidence isn’t a personality trait. It’s a skill. And like any skill, it can be learned, practised, and strengthened.

• You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room. You just need to be rooted in who you are and why your message matters.

That’s what real executive presence is built on.

It’s not about your voice, it’s about your thoughts

When leaders struggle to speak up, it’s rarely because they don’t have the right words.

It’s what they’re telling themselves before they speak.

• “I’m not as experienced as everyone else.” 

• “They’ll think I’m too emotional.” 

• “I’m probably rambling.”

These thoughts create tension, and tension silences your voice.

The body tightens. The pacing speeds up. The clarity disappears.

It’s not that you’re a bad public speaker. It’s that your self-talk is getting in the way.

So, how do we move from performance to presence?

Imposter syndrome in leadership thrives when we focus on how we’re being judged.

But powerful speakers don’t obsess over being perfect. They focus on connection, clarity, and impact.

Here’s what to try:

• Stop proving, start connecting. Instead of looking confident, ask yourself: What does my audience need to hear right now?

• Practice out loud, not just in your head. Confidence builds through action. Rehearsing out loud rewires your brain and your body. Honestly? It’s one of the most underrated confidence boosters I know.

• Use your nerves. That flutter in your stomach? It means you care. So instead of fighting it, channel that energy into intention.

You don’t need to feel fearless, just prepared and grounded

I’ve coached Executives, entrepreneurs, and teams at the top of their game and many of them still get nervous before speaking.

But the difference? They’ve learned how to work with their nerves instead of against them.

Because confidence isn’t the absence of fear.

It’s the decision to show up anyway with preparation, clarity, and trust in your voice.

If public speaking sometimes feels like a battle with your thoughts, you’re not broken.

You’re human.

And the good news?

With the right tools, support, and mindset, you can move through imposter syndrome and turn self-doubt into strength.

Your speak proud challenge this week

Write down one moment where you showed up powerfully, even if it felt messy.

Practice your next talk or message out loud and notice what shifts.

Share something in a meeting without over-prepping, speak from what you know.

Confidence isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present.

And your voice? It’s more powerful than you think.

Speak Proud.

Follow me on Instagram and LinkedIn for more info!

Read more from Lisa Sheerin

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Lisa Sheerin, Executive Public Speaking Coach

Lisa works as an executive public speaking coach, actor, and group fitness instructor with over 20 years of experience. A graduate of a three-year drama school program in London, she began her career in theatre and film, where she faced and overcame imposter syndrome. Today, she empowers others to embrace their authenticity and transform self-doubt into confidence, combining her acting expertise, fitness training, and passion for personal growth. Her mission is to guide others toward a life where they can speak and live proudly.