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Photo by Fortune Vieyra on UnsplashHave you ever experienced imposter syndrome — the feeling that you're not qualified for your job?
If so, you might be struggling with confidence in your professional skills. Let’s explore how self-confidence can benefit your career and how to improve it!
Benefits of Confidence
Photo by Resume Genius on UnsplashHaving confidence at work offers many benefits.
Stronger relationships with others.
Improved teamwork.
Increased job performance.
Less stress.
A more positive outlook on your career.
You're not born with confidence — it's something you can develop. By applying a few tips and strategies, you can enjoy the benefits of being confident in your work skills.
1. Set Goals for Yourself
Setting and accomplishing goals gives you concrete evidence of your capabilities. If you feel that you lack confidence, focusing on your growth can serve as a reminder of your progress and potential.
The SMART framework is a popular strategy for goal setting.
SMART Goal Example
Maya is starting her first job in customer service. Her SMART goal is to learn the names and roles of team members within the first two weeks.
Specific: Her goal focuses on familiarizing herself with the team.
Measurable: It's measured by the number of names/roles.
Achievable: She can do it with practice!
Relevant: It helps her integrate into the team.
Time-bound: She aims to complete this goal within two weeks.
When setting SMART goals...
Consider your strengths.
Reflect on areas of improvement.
Write them down.
Share your goals with others to build support and increase accountability.
And don’t forget to celebrate success!
2. Keep Learning!
Photo by Kimberly Farmer on UnsplashDeveloping new skills can increase your confidence by creating a positive self-image and sense of accomplishment.
To upskill, use learning resources such as books, YouTube videos, and free learning platforms like:
You can also:
Consider professional development courses
Explore side projects outside of your current role
Seek out volunteer opportunities
Consider this scenario...
Jaden is a talented clothing designer. Recently, he was asked to pitch his ideas to an important client, but he struggles with public speaking. He wonders what it will take to confidently and clearly communicate his ideas to the client.
What are some ways he can up-skill and build his confidence with public speaking?
A. Observe other talented presenters in action.
B. Take a break and turn his attention to building other skills.
C. Learn from mentors and colleagues.
D. Volunteer to mentor youth in developing communication skills.
Quiz
What are some ways Jaden can up-skill and build his confidence with public speaking? Select all that apply:
Observing other skilled presenters (A) and learning from mentors and colleagues (C) are great opportunities for upskilling. Volunteering (D) can also be rewarding — not only does it help you develop valuable skills, it can also provide a sense of personal fulfillment. Meanwhile, turning his attention to focus on other skills (B) might reduce stress in the moment, but it doesn't address the underlying issues or help with confidence building.
3. Ask for Feedback
It’s rewarding to gather feedback from colleagues, leaders, and mentors. No matter the type of feedback you receive, remember that it's a tool that can help you build confidence and continue your self-growth journey.
Positive Feedback
Ex. "I appreciate your attention to detail. It made a huge difference for the project! The client really appreciated the polished work we delivered."
Positive feedback like this can boost confidence by reaffirming your strengths and accomplishments. It serves as a reminder of your abilities, efforts, and the value you bring.
Constructive Feedback
Ex. "Your dedication to this task is outstanding. Moving forward, meeting deadlines consistently would help keep the project on track."
Being open to constructive feedback allows you to identify opportunities for growth. Applying constructive feedback can help you overcome challenges and boost your confidence.
Working on these areas of growth proves that you’re capable of learning. What's more, asking for feedback shows others you care about your work and that you value their insights.
4. Use Positive Self-Talk
You damage your self-esteem when you constantly criticize yourself and focus on weaknesses.
Instead, practice positive affirmations like “I am strong,” or “I can succeed,” on a daily basis to build resilience and reframe negative thoughts. As you shift your internal dialogue, you'll find more confidence in your abilities.
Negative Self-Talk
I'm not good at organizing my tasks.
I always mess up when I try new things.
I'm bad at presentations compared to my coworkers.
Positive Self-Talk
I am capable of organizing my tasks using systems that work for me.
I can learn and improve through new challenges.
I have a unique perspective and I can clearly communicate it to my audience.
Remember, you have great potential and valuable skills!
5. Dress for Success
Photo by Hunters Race on UnsplashTaking care of your image serves as a tool for empowerment. When you dress professionally, your brain receives signals that you’re prepared to handle challenges.
In the video below, recruiter Emily Durham highlights how the way you dress can affect your confidence by influencing the way you feel and how you see yourself.
Take Action
It's time to find your confidence. Believe in yourself!
This Byte has been authored by
Brigette Long
Instructional Designer
M.I.T.