Confidence in the workplace can be an issue even for the most senior leaders. I’m coaching a tech executive who shared an interesting pattern in his professional behavior. During interviews and the hiring process, he exudes confidence, speaks his mind freely, and feels self-assured. However, once he steps into a new role, he admits to becoming more reserved and compliant, often fading into the background.
“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” – Teddy Rosevelt
He explained that he feels uncomfortable voicing his opinions or collaborating assertively because he worries about being perceived as arrogant or overly self-assured. Despite being hired specifically for his expertise and perspective, he struggles to feel at ease sharing his thoughts openly with leadership once he’s on the job.
Interestingly, this dynamic shifts entirely in his advisory board roles—he currently serves on three. In these settings, he’s fully aware that he’s been brought in to provide candid feedback, and he doesn’t hesitate to ensure his voice is heard. The contrast between his approach in these roles versus his behavior as an employee is both notable and telling.
Why Confidence is Important
The pattern described above is not uncommon, especially in the tech industry where imposter syndrome and fear of standing out can be prevalent. Many individuals struggle with feeling confident and speaking up in their workplace, even if they have been hired for their expertise and unique perspectives.
However, it is crucial for professionals to maintain confidence in the workplace for several reasons:
- To effectively contribute to the organization: Employees are hired based on their skills, knowledge, and experiences. By speaking up and sharing their thoughts openly, professionals can provide valuable insights and ideas that can benefit the organization as a whole.
- To build credibility: When employees confidently express their opinions and ideas, it shows that they have faith in their abilities and are knowledgeable about the subject matter. This can help them gain credibility among colleagues and leaders, which can lead to more opportunities for growth and advancement.
- To foster a positive work culture: Confidence is contagious, and when one person speaks up with confidence, it can encourage others to do the same. This creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas, which can lead to more innovation and collaboration.
- To avoid missed opportunities: By not speaking up, employees may miss out on opportunities to contribute or make a meaningful impact in their organization. This can also hinder their professional growth and development.
How to Maintain Confidence
Maintaining confidence in the workplace is an ongoing process that requires self-awareness and intentional actions. Here are some tips that professionals can use to help maintain confidence in the workplace:
- Believe in yourself: Remind yourself of your skills, knowledge, and experiences that have led you to where you are today. Trust in your abilities and believe that you have something valuable to contribute.
- Prepare beforehand: If you struggle with speaking up in meetings or group settings, it may be helpful to prepare beforehand. This could include jotting down your thoughts and ideas, practicing what you want to say, or even seeking advice from a trusted colleague.
- Embrace mistakes and failures: Nobody is perfect, and making mistakes is a normal part of the learning process. Instead of dwelling on them, use them as opportunities for growth and improvement. This can help build resilience and confidence in one’s abilities.
- Surround yourself with supportive individuals: It’s important to have a strong support system at work who can encourage and uplift you when needed. Seek out mentors or colleagues who believe in your abilities and can provide constructive feedback and support.
- Take ownership of your achievements: Celebrate your successes and acknowledge the hard work that you have put in. This can help boost confidence and motivate you to continue striving for success.
By following these tips, professionals can maintain their confidence in the workplace and feel more comfortable speaking up and sharing their thoughts openly. Remember, having confidence in one’s abilities is not about being arrogant or overly self-assured, but rather about recognizing one’s worth and value in an organization.
Value of a Coach in Building Confidence
Mentorship or coaching programs can also be beneficial for individuals who struggle with maintaining confidence in the workplace. Having a trusted advisor or mentor can provide support and guidance, helping professionals navigate challenging situations and build their self-assurance. Here is how a coach can help you build confidence:
- Provide unbiased feedback: Coaches can provide objective feedback and guidance, helping individuals identify their strengths and areas for improvement.
- Offer a safe space to voice concerns: Having a coach as a sounding board can be helpful for professionals who struggle with expressing themselves in the workplace. A coach can offer a safe and non-judgmental space to share thoughts, ideas, or concerns.
- Help set realistic goals: Coaches can assist individuals in setting achievable goals that align with their values and strengths. This can help build confidence by providing a clear direction and purpose.
- Support in developing effective communication skills: Communication is key in building confidence in the workplace. A coach can help individuals develop effective communication skills, such as assertiveness and active listening, which can help them express themselves more confidently.
- Encourage self-reflection: Self-awareness is crucial in maintaining confidence. Coaches can support individuals in reflecting on their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, helping them identify any limiting beliefs or patterns that may be hindering their confidence.
Coaching can be a valuable tool for professionals looking to build confidence in the workplace. By providing guidance and support, coaches can help individuals reach their full potential and contribute effectively to their organization.
Conclusion
Confidence in the workplace is vital for both personal growth and professional success. It empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully, build credibility, foster a positive work culture, and seize opportunities rather than letting them slip by. By cultivating self-belief, learning from mistakes, and surrounding yourself with supportive colleagues, you can maintain and grow your confidence. Seeking guidance through coaching or mentorship can also provide valuable support for those looking to strengthen their self-assurance.
With intentional effort and self-awareness, professionals can navigate their careers with confidence, positively influencing their organizations along the way. Let’s strive to create an environment where everyone feels empowered to speak up and share their insights. Confidence isn’t just about personal success—it’s also about inspiring and uplifting those around us.
Remember, greatness begins with self-belief. You were hired because someone recognized your value and potential. Trust in your abilities and know that you’re here to make a meaningful impact. Don’t hesitate to voice your thoughts and ideas; the results can be both empowering and transformative, for you and your organization.
Click here for a post on how to overcome self-doubt as a leader.