I'm all for being wary of a new company, or a new job. The only two jobs I have ever hated I should never have taken, and I knew it at interview.
But it sounds like the lad is a bit wary of a step up in role. You should NEVER be scared of this. And unless there are sound reasons to do so, you should NEVER turn it down. Chance might not come again.
And who doesn't want more authority? More say in decision-making? More power? More status?
Everyone thinks they are an 'imposter' to some extent. Just remember a cold, hard truth- most people are ****ing **** at their jobs. How can you possibly be any worse than them?![]()
It happens. Leaving the confidence issue aside, is this the sort of step up that is natural in your current role? And is it the sort of thing you would have envisaged progressing to?
Not everyone wants the next job up. But if you do, don't let an opportunity pass you by unless you have other concerns about the role or the company.
Confidence is something you can always get back, but it doesn't reappear by itself.