All of us know the role of competence in workplace success and in career advancement. But, competence is not enough unless it is backed by confidence. A lot of proficient leaders score 10 on 10 when graded on the basis of competence, but when it comes to confidence, they need some tips on how to boost confidence at work so that lack of confidence doesn’t slow down their professional growth. You do not require a personality overhaul in order to boost confidence at work, rather you need to take smaller steps that might reduce self-doubt and make you more self-assured.
Tips that will help you boost confidence at work:
- Get out of your comfort zone by volunteering for a project that may allow you to develop new skills. You can also sign up to speak or present at an event to tackle your fear of public speaking and improve yourself over time.
- Bring an end to the negative self-talk. You cannot get better by ragging on yourself for the mistakes that you’ve done. Try to encourage yourself so that you can put in some extra efforts to achieve professional growth.
- Have a positive attitude by focusing on your skills and talents. Stop dwelling on your weaknesses, it will only hurt your self-esteem.
- People will see you as someone who is friendly and affable. It would also help you feel better about yourself.
- Focus on your successes; it is really tough to boost your confidence if you are bewailing about your past mistakes. Did you meet a tight deadline? Did your boss praise you for providing amazing inputs? Great, praise yourself.
- Seek out co-workers who are supportive and optimistic. They can help you when you’re feeling down or when you doubt your ability. There are always people who would be jealous of your achievements, but find someone who will be happy to see you succeed.
- Do you believe in power dressing? Dressing well, maintaining the right posture, making eye contact and being friendly will give the impression that you’re self-assured and confident. Once the world will see you as someone who is confident, it will also boost your self-confidence.
- Work on your weaknesses by making a plan to overcome them instead of fearing them. If you are afraid of speaking in front of a lot of people, take a public speaking course; if you think you lack the competence that is required for career growth, gradually develop the lacking skills.
- If want something, ask for it. There’s nothing wrong in asking for what you want, if it is possible, you’ll probably hear a yes. For example: You are working at the same position since last 2 years, without a raise. You are too afraid to ask for a raise. Have a word with your boss, tell him what you want. What worse could happen? You will get a no, but what if you get a yes.
- Trust your gut and be really honest with yourself. Set your goal and know that you are being true to yourself.