Research finds that imposter syndrome disproportionately impacts high achievers, women, and underrepresented racial and ethnic minorities. Ironically, these are the same types of people hired into entry-level roles who look around and find no one who looks like them. The result is extreme pressure to overperform. This can lead to great achievements, but also to burnout. As a person of color entering the workforce, how do you guard against all this?

• Mind your mental health. Having the courage to be yourself in spaces where you stick out takes time and intentionality. If the resource is available to you, seek out professional help from a licensed therapist to talk through any anxiety and stress you may feel in your early days in a new role. Also, surround yourself with similarly situated colleagues, as there is strength in numbers.
• Find your allies. Allies can become strong, supportive voices in any room — people who will advocate on your behalf and make work feel like psychologically safer space.
• Invest time in a good mentor. Mentors can fill you in on the company culture. These are the unwritten rules on how things get done at an organization. Finding out these rules before you trip over them will put you in a favorable position for future advancement.
• Be on the lookout for champions and sponsors. These are people of influence who can advocate on your behalf and put you in a position to succeed. When looking for a champion, consider leaders at your company who have shown excitement about your accomplishments — people who have seen you in action.