Imposter Syndrome - Scrum Master Workshop

This Workshop is designed to help Scrum Masters and Agile Coaches in a Community of Practice identify, acknowledge, and manage imposter syndrome (IS) by sharing personal experiences and learning from each other. This workshop fosters a supportive and psychologically safe environment, enabling open and courageous conversations about imposter syndrome.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start Here: Begin by understanding the objective of the workshop, which is to help team members recognize and strategize to manage imposter syndrome.

2. Introduction to Imposter Syndrome: Read the provided definition and statistics about imposter syndrome to understand its prevalence and impact.

3. Working Agreement: Establish a working agreement to ensure a safe and productive session. This can include:

   • Openness and Active Participation: Encourage everyone to share their experiences and listen with empathy.

   • Courage: Embrace discomfort, support each other, and provide constructive feedback.

   • Confidentiality: Maintain privacy and anonymity of shared stories.

   • Equal Voice: Ensure inclusive participation and respectful interruptions.

   • Upholding Psychological Safety: Create a non-judgmental atmosphere and acknowledge shared feelings.

4. Individual Reflection (10 minutes): Each participant grabs a lane and adds sticky notes detailing their experiences with imposter syndrome, including:

   • How they felt in the moment.

   • The impact it had on them.

   • Their thoughts at the time.

   • How they managed or overcame it (if applicable).

5. Group Sharing and Brainstorming (20 minutes):

   • Break into small groups of 3-4 people.

   • Share individual experiences within the group.

   • Discuss and brainstorm ideas to manage or overcome imposter syndrome.

   • Document practical steps, mindsets, self-care practices, or resources that can help.

6. Gallery Walk (10 minutes): One person from each group shares the key takeaways from their discussion with the larger group. Highlight strategies that resonated most.

7. Action Plan (2 minutes): Each participant writes down one action they will take based on the workshop discussion.

8. Closing: Thank participants for their courage and openness. Share additional resources and revisit the team's working agreement to incorporate new learnings.

Who Will Benefit

This workshop is beneficial for Scrum Masters and Agile Coaches in a Community of Practice who may experience imposter syndrome. Use it to foster a supportive and psychologically safe environment where members can openly discuss their feelings and develop strategies to manage imposter syndrome.