What Do You Do Right?
Even if you make a mistake and you feel badly about it, there must be something you have done right! Use these techniques to remind yourself of why you were hired in the first place.
Take inventory.
Actually write down a few goals you have accomplished this week.
Focus on your strengths.
We all have our strengths and weaknesses. But, are you actually aware of all the positive things you bring to the table? Confide in a trusted friend and ask for her input. And when you agree with her, it won't be seen as bragging, but as ego-affirming.
Move on.
After you've taken responsibility for your part of something that didn't work out, act "as if" you have forgiven yourself, and ultimately you will.
-Helene Lerner
Confidence Boosters
September 2009
Carol Kivler
Professional Speaker and Executive Coach
When you're just starting out, everything feels new. Particularly, if you're the youngest member of your team with the least experience, it can be very intimidating. Here are some things to consider to help take the reigns of your career:
Remember, everyone was the "new kid on the block" once.
Even the CEO of your company was shaking in his shoes at one point in his career. In those moments of insecurity, remind yourself of this, and replay your life's successes. Think about how you excelled in a class, summer job, internship, or volunteer activity. Remembering this will increase your confidence now.
Align personal goals with organization's goals.
When we first start working, we are so concerned about making a good impression that we may spend our time on the wrong things (i.e.; items not seen by anyone but you, like your filing system or calendar, and other low priority tasks). Instead, make sure your top priorities are in line with your company's. For example, if your manager has a big project, ask if you can help out, or pick up a responsibility you know she doesn't like doing.
Volunteer for greater credibility.
Because most of us lack confidence starting out, we may shy away from opportunities that bring us visibility, preventing us from building credibility. Keep an ear out for focus groups, task forces, event-planning committees, etc. Once you get a reputation as someone who can be counted on, your name will come up when new opportunities arise. Stretching out of your comfort zone will aid in developing confidence as well.
Start a "me file."
Whenever you hear a comment about your strengths and abilities from your boss or co-workers, write it down. Keep them in a file that you can refer to at a weak moment.
Get honest feedback.
If your organization has a formal mentoring program, get involved right away. If not, befriend a coworker and create a "buddy relationship" where trust develops over time. Let your coworker know what changes you want to make and ask them periodically to provide you with feedback. Once the trust has developed, honest feedback is easier to give and take.
Mistakes = growth.
Remember that unless you're "ouching," you're not growing. I carry a small card in my wallet that reads: "I blew it and I knew it. Forgive yourself." We are all human! Accepting responsibility for a mistake takes courage, and the payoff is wisdom. Take time to reflect on the mistake and acknowledge the lesson you learned. Share those lessons with someone you trust – repetition is the mother of retention!
Know the difference between eager to succeed and over-confident.
Over-confidence can come off as arrogance. The difference you want to display is a willingness to learn and grow. The over-confident person has an air that projects "I am above doing this." Be willing to do the grunt jobs. No complaining!
Fake it until you make it.
Use positive affirmations and visualizing to increase confidence. Also, do your homework prior to any event or assignment. Preparation accelerates confidence! You will grow more sure of yourself. In the meantime, it is the consistency of high standards, follow-through, and integrity that will advance your career.