When I first stepped into the VP of CS role, I felt ready.
I had the experience, the track record, and the confidence to lead.
But over time, the self-doubt started creeping in.
After a tough quarter, I’d wonder if I was still the right person for the job.
After a tense exec meeting, I’d replay every word, question my decisions, and nitpick my delivery.
It wasn’t a lack of skill.
It was the quiet voice asking, “What if I’m not cut out for this after all?”
That voice? That’s imposter syndrome.
And if you’ve felt it too, you’re not alone.
Why It Shows Up (Even When You’re Doing Great)
Imposter syndrome affects more than 70% of high performers, according to the Journal of Behavioral Science. And in Customer Success, the pressure is uniquely intense.
You’re responsible for renewals, retention, executive escalations, and team performance. And yet, unlike Sales or Product, CS is still carving out its seat at the table.
That gap between responsibility and authority? It creates the perfect breeding ground for self-doubt.
Here’s what no one tells you:
Even the most competent CS leaders battle with imposter syndrome.
I’ve coached VPs who’ve built CS orgs from scratch.
Directors managing $10M+ portfolios.
High-performers with boardroom presence and consistent results.
Still, they’ve quietly asked me:
“What if I’m not doing enough?”
“What if they realize I don’t have it all figured out?”
“What if I mess this up?”
Imposter syndrome isn’t a sign of weakness.
It’s a sign you care deeply. But if left unchecked, it can become a liability—fueling perfectionism, hesitation, or silence at the moments your leadership is most needed.
What It Looks Like in CS Leadership
- You stay quiet in exec meetings even when you know your data is solid
- You avoid pushing back on Sales or Product because you don’t want to be “difficult”
- You overwork to make up for the voice in your head saying, “You’re not doing enough”
- You downplay your wins because you feel like they weren’t “real” wins
The irony? The fact that you care this much is usually a sign that you’re more than qualified.
Here’s What I Tell My Coaching Clients
You don’t need to feel confident to lead effectively.
You need clarity, action, and consistency.
Confidence doesn’t come before leadership.
It comes from leading through discomfort until your mind catches up with what you’ve already proven.
How to Work Through It: 5 Practical Shifts
You don’t “fix” imposter syndrome. But you can build habits that help you move through it powerfully and strategically.
1. Create a ‘Wins & Evidence’ File
You can’t trust your feelings when they lie to you. What you can trust is data.
Action: Keep a running document or folder of your wins: successful renewals, customer testimonials, praise from your team, big saves. Review it regularly. Let the evidence speak louder than your self-doubt.
2. Separate Facts from Stories
That inner voice saying you’re “not ready”? It’s often based on fear, not truth.
Action: When doubt creeps in, write down the thought. Ask yourself:
- What’s the story I’m telling myself?
- What’s the actual evidence?
This helps you disrupt the mental spiral and re-ground in reality.
3. Normalize Not Having All the Answers
You don’t need to know everything. You just need to know how to figure it out.
Action: When asked something you’re unsure about, say:
“That’s a great question. I don’t have the answer yet, but I’ll find out and follow up.”
This builds credibility—not erodes it.
4. Get a Mirror, Not Just a Megaphone
Coaching isn’t just about leveling up your team. It’s about reflecting on your own growth.
Action: Find a coach, mentor, or peer who can be a sounding board. Someone who sees your blind spots but also your brilliance and reminds you of both.
5. Talk to Your Future Self
When you’re stuck in self-doubt, zoom out.
Action: Ask yourself:
“If I were the confident, strategic CS leader I want to be, what decision would I make today?”
Then act from that version of yourself. Not the scared one. Not the unsure one. The future you who’s already figured it out.
You’re Not Faking It. You’re Figuring It Out.
There’s a difference.
Every CS leader I’ve coached—yes, even the most impressive ones—has hit a moment where they wondered if they were out of their depth.
It’s not a sign that you don’t belong.
It’s a sign that you’re stretching. Leading. Growing.
And you don’t have to do it alone.
Ready to Lead With More Confidence?
In 1:1 coaching, I work with CS leaders to:
✅ Get clear on what’s working and what’s not
✅ Build strategies and systems that drive consistent results
✅ Strengthen the mindset and leadership habits to thrive under pressure
📅 Want to explore whether coaching is the right fit for you? Book a consultation call with me here. Let’s talk through what you’re navigating and explore whether coaching or consulting is the right next step to support your goals.