Confidence in the workplace

Having confidence in yourself and your ability goes a long way to help you in your working career. However, there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Being perceived as too confident by a group of people can lead to you being considered arrogant, while being too modest suggests that you lack confidence.

Why is confidence important?

Confidence is knowing what you’re good at, what value you bring, and acting in such a way that these qualities are conveyed to those around you.

Research has shown that when people are put in situations where they don’t expect to do well, their general performance nosedives. The negativity and pressure they feel creeps into their headspace. When they expect to do well, however, their performance improves considerably. 

Why do I need confidence in the workplace?

You'll be perceived as a positive individual – If your words and actions have conviction, you’ll be taken more seriously, which will help you advance in your job, career and life

You'll do more – You’ll be more likely to engage in challenging, but manageable, projects. This may push the boundaries of your comfort zone, which will encourage you to set and achieve new goals. These are valued characteristics of successful workers. Most importantly, employers will learn to trust you with a project and know that you are more likely to be worthy of motivating others.

You'll communicate effectively – Confidence allows you to speak positively and with clarity. Professionals who communicate with confidence can convey their ideas and thoughts to their clients and co-workers in a clear and efficient manner. 

Among the top behaviours employers look for when hiring or promoting a candidate are interpersonal skills, professionalism and enthusiasm, all valid points associated with confidence.

Ultimately, employers benefit from confident employees because they are more positive contributors, more productive, good motivators and make great role models. Additionally, confident employees are more alert and mindful of their surroundings, which increases their personal wellbeing and safety awareness on the job.

What can I do to increase my confidence?

Change your viewpoint – People who lack confidence tend to be more concerned about the impact others have on them. Instead, they should focus on the impact they have on others. 

Acknowledge your achievements – When you do something well or achieve something, don’t sweep it under the carpet. Acknowledge it and give yourself praise even if it is just a minor achievement. Make sure your boss knows about any good work you have done. 

Act confidently – Ever heard of the saying ‘a picture paints a thousand words’? Now picture yourself. How do you look? What messages are you communicating when you walk into a room? What is your posture and body language saying? What information can potential employers or co-workers gather about you before you even say a word? Be aware of how you hold yourself and what body language you’re portraying. 

The best way to stand out from others is to express your confidence, stand tall and show you are proud, happy and enjoy what you do.

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