From Second Choice to First-Rate: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Your Accounting Career

Have you ever walked into a new position knowing you weren't the first choice? That uncomfortable feeling in the pit of your stomach isn't just nerves—it's imposter syndrome knocking at your door, and it's especially common in our accounting profession where precision and expertise are highly valued.

As someone who's worked with hundreds of accounting professionals, I've seen how this particular flavour of self-doubt can derail even the most talented bookkeepers and accountants. The good news? You can transform this challenging start into your greatest professional advantage.

The Second-Choice Syndrome

It's not uncommon to experience imposter syndrome in a new job. But when you know you weren't the first choice for the role, those feelings of self-doubt may be amplified tenfold. Every mistake feels like confirmation that perhaps they were right to consider someone else first.

This mindset is particularly prevalent in our industry, where we're trained to find errors and maintain perfect accuracy. We apply that same exacting standard to ourselves, often unfairly.

Three Power Moves to Rebuild Your Confidence

1. Clarify the Gaps with Purpose

Instead of wondering what made you the second choice, take control of the narrative. Schedule a conversation with your manager to understand exactly what skills or qualities they felt were missing.Project humility, curiosity, and confidence during this conversation. Try opening with: "I'd love to know what you perceive as my gaps and what I can do to fill them." This approach isn't showing weakness—it's demonstrating remarkable professional maturity. Just as we advise our clients to understand their financial gaps to achieve success, we must understand our professional gaps to grow.

2. Transform Feedback into Action

The feedback you receive might sting initially, but treat it like gold. In our profession, we know that accurate data, even when it reveals problems, is infinitely more valuable than comforting fiction.

• Create a specific development plan based on the feedback

• Set measurable targets with your manager

• Develop a concrete game plan with deadlines

• Track your progress meticulously (we're good at that!)

Remember how you mastered complex accounting concepts? You can apply that same dedicated learning approach to developing these new skills.

3. Reintroduce Yourself Strategically

In accounting firms, relationships and reputation matter enormously. Take the initiative to set up informal, one-on-one meetings with key colleagues and leaders.

Your goal isn't to apologize for being the second choice—it's to introduce yourself in the context of your role and unique strengths. Share your vision for the position and ask thoughtful questions about how you can best support their work.

The Second-Choice Advantage

Here's a perspective shift: Being the second choice actually gives you valuable information that first-choice candidates never receive. You have clear feedback on exactly what to develop, while they might struggle to identify their growth areas.

In my years coaching accounting professionals, I've seen "second choices" frequently outperform first choices precisely because they approach the role with greater self-awareness and determination.

Remember, your value isn't determined by whether you were the first choice—it's determined by what you do with the opportunity you've been given.

Until next time,