How to Be a ”Defiant Imposter,” with Delida Costin

We've all heard of imposter syndrome, the feeling that you don't belong somewhere, typically in a job situation. But as our guest Delida Costin points out, there are times when people actually don't "belong" due to some existing institutional, systemic structures rife with racism, sexism and other factors. 

 

It is during these times that Costin believes in becoming a "Defiant Imposter." To recognize the situation you are in, and embrace who you are and overcome stereotypes imposed upon you. 

 

In this discussion, Costin breaks down what a "Defiant Imposter" is (and why it might be okay to be an imposter!), how workplaces can begin discussions around belonging, strategies to overcome existing barriers, and the importance of saying "Tell me about that." 

 

Delida Costin will be delivering the Ted Talk, "Defying Imposter Syndrome" tomorrow, August 7. Register for it here.

 

OpenWater is building a new community and platform that connects experience, midlife professionals with one another and to new opportunities. To find out more, visit OpenWater.group.

 

About the guest: 

Delida is committed to equipping individuals and teams to get to where they want to be. As a general counsel growth advisor, she collaborates with chief legal officers, transforming their departments from perceived cost centers into indispensable assets within the C-suite and boardroom. Her career spans over three decades in the corporate legal and people spheres where she has served as chief legal officer, chief people officer, corporate secretary, and board director. Her philosophy emphasizes valuing heartbeats as fiercely as dollars, paying attention to what others value, and recognizing accountability to a larger ecosystem. This approach has enabled her to make meaningful contributions that resonate beyond immediate surroundings.