The hidden heat: Impostor Phenomenon in global kitchen brigades

Purpose – Drawing on the concept of the Impostor Phenomenon (IP) our study aims to examine the causes, influences, outcomes and the mechanism of IP in the overlooked context of hospitality. We aim to explore the contextual influence on the development of IP. Design/methodology/approach – Using a critical realist lens, we applied narrative and deductive analysis to examine the antecedents and consequences of impostor experiences among 235 chefs. Findings – The study reveals that IP in hospitality is a complex, context-dependent experience shaped by toxic workplace cultures, ineffective leadership, and structural inequalities within professional kitchens. The findings highlight working conditions as a critical contextual condition influencing the IP in this occupational setting. Practical implications – Addressing IP requires supportive leadership, mental health initiatives, and inclusive career development. Originality/value – This study is unique in both scale and depth, offering a conceptual and empirically grounded understanding of the origin, antecedents, and impact of IP within the hospitality context.