As professionals, we aim to make our mark and present our best selves at work. A cornerstone of professional success is confidence. But how do you build and exhibit confidence? Here are eight simple strategies to increase confidence at work and amplify your presence.
1. Embrace Positive Self-talk
Your inner voice shapes your outer world. The words you tell yourself can either empower or undermine you. Positive affirmations and self-talk bolster self-worth and belief, increasing your confidence at work.
For example, challenge the negative voice inside. Instead of “I can’t handle this,” try saying, “I’ve got this,” or “I’m prepared for this challenge.”
2. Celebrate Small Wins
Recognizing small victories builds momentum for bigger achievements. Celebrating achievements, no matter how small, reinforces a success mindset and will increase your confidence at work.
For example, if you finished a report before the deadline, treat yourself to your favorite snack or take a five-minute walk to revel in your accomplishment.
3. Master Your Body Language
Non-verbal cues communicate as loudly as words. Confident body language not only projects confidence to others but also trickles internally, making you feel more assertive.
For example, keep a straight posture, maintain eye contact in conversations, and use open gestures.
4. Crave Constructive Feedback
Growth emerges from feedback. Embracing feedback highlights your areas of improvement, allowing for refinement and increased confidence at work.
After a team meeting, ask a colleague, “Do you have any feedback on how I presented?”
5. Nurture Positive Relationships
You’re as good as your tribe. Engaging with uplifting individuals can provide motivation, knowledge, and positive reinforcement.
Make an effort to have lunch or coffee breaks with colleagues who inspire you or have a positive outlook.
6. Invest in Continuous Learning
Knowledge is empowering. Acquiring new skills and information solidifies your professional competence and increases confidence at work.
For example, subscribe to a course or workshop that complements your role or industry.
7. Practice Visualization Techniques
Mentally simulating success can lead to real-life accomplishments. Visualization provides a mental rehearsal, making success feel more attainable.
For example, before heading to a meeting, visualize it unfolding positively, with you confidently addressing points and colleagues nodding in agreement.
8. Cultivate Gratitude
Appreciating your journey maintains a positive professional outlook. Recognizing your past successes can remind you of your capabilities, fostering confidence.
For example, maintain a journal to jot down three weekly professional achievements, big or small.
Resources to Help Build Confidence
Building confidence is a transformative journey, and numerous resources can guide you. These TED Talks, brimming with knowledge and real-life applications, serve as invaluable confidence-building resources for anyone eager to embark on a journey of self-improvement.
How to build your confidence — and spark it in others
“Confidence is the necessary spark before everything that follows,” says educator and activist Brittany Packnett Cunningham. In an inspiring talk, she shares three ways to crack the code of confidence — and her dream for a world where revolutionary confidence helps turn our most ambitious dreams into reality.
A 3-Step Guide to Believing in Yourself
Sheryl Lee Ralph is a force, delivering iconic performances both on stage and screen. But she didn’t always know if she’d make it big. In a lively talk sparkling with actionable advice, she shares how her struggles taught her what it takes to believe in herself — and how we can all find the self-confidence to keep moving forward.
The skill of self confidence
As the Athletic Director and head coach of the Varsity Soccer team at Ryerson University, Dr. Joseph is often asked what skills he is searching for as a recruiter: is it speed? Strength? Agility? In Dr. Joseph’s TEDx Talk, he explores self-confidence and how it is not just the most important skill in athletics but in our lives.
The surprising secret to speaking with confidence
In this fun and personal talk, Caroline shares a story of moving from stage-paralysis to expressive self. Accompanied by an unusual prop, she encourages us to use our voice as an instrument and really find the confidence within.
Building confidence is a journey, not a destination. Need a confidence boost or personalized guidance on your professional journey? Utilize the Ask a Coach section for additional advice and strategies. Remember, increasing confidence at work is a continuous process; with determination and these strategies, you’re set to shine even brighter in your career!
