No matter where you are in your career path, you could likely use a little extra confidence. This feeling is especially real for young professionals or those who are starting at a new company. Learning to have confidence in your work and position can help you go a long way at any company. We’re often far too critical of ourselves and need to acknowledge that we probably know more than we think we do and are capable of a lot. You shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help at work, but you also need to learn to feel confident in your own abilities. Here are some ways you can improve your confidence at work.
Stick to your word
By staying true to what you say at work, you’ll gain more confidence in yourself and also see your coworkers gain more confidence in you. If you say you’re going to get a project done by a specific deadline, get it done. If you offer to help out someone, help them when they ask for it. Proving to yourself and others that you’re honest and reliable can significantly increase your confidence.
Improve your knowledge
If there’s a specific area that you do not feel confident in at work, improve your knowledge in that area. Listen to podcasts, read books and articles, or take courses that can help you master that skill.
Stand up for yourself
To have true confidence at work, you need to learn to stand up for yourself. There are going to be times when people may try to take credit for your work or push ahead of you to benefit in the workplace. If you feel like you’re not assertive enough when it comes to the work you do and possible promotions or other benefits, learn to speak up for yourself.
Be friendly
Being friendly to the people around you and learning to smile and greet others, even when you’re busy or stressed out, helps you seem like a more confident person. You’ll come across as relaxed and in control instead of harried and unfriendly.
Talk about achievements
While there’s a fine line between bragging and rightfully talking about your accomplishments, there is a difference. If you accomplish something at work, go ahead and mention it to your supervisor. You need to feel comfortable talking about what you’ve done well; knowing these items can be vitally important when you’re interviewing for a new position or going through a review.
Find a support system
If you have a strong support system at work, you’ll find that it helps your confidence immensely. Having others, you can go to for advice or run an idea past is incredibly valuable. Having a support system outside of work is great too since you can talk to someone who’s removed from the environment. Surround yourself with people who are encouraging and positive.
