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08 Jul, 2018

Building confidence at work

Confidence is a quality that you build over time and shaped by your life experience. Therefore, it is not a trait that every person is born with. When you are surrounded by other professionals in your field at the office, it can be hard to speak up your mind or be assertive in social situations, especially if you are still new. In times like this, it is important to remember that everyone has to start somewhere, and those people around you most likely had been in your shoes before they become more familiar with their work. You will need to put in the time and effort to learn how to combat your insecurity. These are some ways to help you in building confidence at work.

Keep learning

Anxiety and self-doubt can be caused by lack of knowledge and being unprepared. That is why, it is logical to say that the more knowledgeable you are, the more confident you will be. The first step in building confidence at your workplace is to ask questions. When you are not sure about something, ask your colleague or even your boss. Show that you are willing to learn and are opened to suggestions. You might be hesitant to do that because you don’t want to bother other people, but that is what being in a team is all about! You help each other in time of need. See the mistakes you make as a learning opportunity and an incentive to do better next time.

Body language and appearance                  

How you present yourself will also affect how you feel about yourself. Do not slouch and keep your back straight. Make eye contact and smile when you are talking. Give a firm handshake when you introduce yourself. The same goes with how you dress. Clothing that is well-fitted and appropriate for the workplace will naturally make you feel good about yourself and help you in building confidence. It does not mean that it has to be something expensive, it just has to show professionalism and make you feel comfortable wearing it. Act like someone who is confident and it will become second nature before you know it. It will also create a good first impression to anyone you meet. 

Accept new challenges

Overcoming new challenges will give you a sense of accomplishment. It is a tangible proof of what you are capable of and that it is possible for you to get through something you are unfamiliar with. That is why you should always welcome any opportunity to challenge yourself. Never let fear of failure stops you. The fact is, you will never know your full capabilities without testing yourself. You will know best what you are good at and what still need improvement through these processes, which will make you better at what you do and in turn, help you in building confidence.

Know your worth

One of the factors that affect your confidence is your sense of self-worth. If you always feel less than the others –less smart, less capable, less deserving— then it is no surprise that you feel uncomfortable speaking out or taking on responsibility. Even though doubt can be a useful tool in keeping you humble, it is also important to remind yourself from time to time of all your accomplishment and best qualities. Remember your past successes and the skills you have tempered all these years when you feel small and feel that you do not belong in your workplace. Do an assessment, so that you know precisely what your limit are and just what you are capable of.    

The process of building confidence will not happen overnight but through a series of process that stretch over the years. It is hard to fight the creeping feeling of self-doubt and putting up a brave front. But you will get better with time and practices so do not feel discourage and just do your best.