Achieving Confidence in The Workplace
- charismachatt
- Feb 26, 2015
- 3 min read
Posted by: Victoria Tropiano// Randi Vasquez Photography
I found this so funny yet so true...it basically asked to be shared. When we graduate college, the majority of us are desperate to land our first real job. Something I found in common between friends of mine was that when we (finally) land one, we lack confidence. Why? Because we've never had a real job before and aren't quite sure what we're doing. I think we can all admit we've used Google more times than we'd like to admit to search a "How to" question when given a task.
Anyways, the point is, if you feel unconfident at your job, you're not alone. We're inexperienced individuals in our early twenties and that's okay. Our stage of life needs to be focused on being eager to prove our potential in the workplace with polished completed assignments, never missing a deadline, passion for where we work, and
being a team player.
I've been employed for over a year, and I've learned key ways to boost my confidence and feel comfortable at my workplace even in my most discouraging moments. I've compiled seven different ways in which you can feel confidence and comfort too:
1.) Ask questions.
When your boss gives you assignments, you may be unsure how to do them. A lot of times, we're weary to ask for direction and feel like we should already know the answer. You need to know it really is okay to ask. Trust me, your boss will be glad to clear any confusion before you start the assignment, rather than you handing it in completely wrong. When you ask questions, you don't come off as unexperienced as you feel; rather, eager to learn the best method to complete a task.
2.) Personalize your work space.
It's important to provide personal touches to your office. It will make you feel more comfortable to have a pleasant atmosphere. Where I work, I have framed photos of loved ones throughout my desk area. My favorite part of my work space is my pink sapphire plant (I've named her Cynthia). I wanted a low maintenance plant that I only had to water once every couple days. Being able to admire and take care of it certainly serves as a daily stress reliever.
3.) Fake it.
If you don't feel confident, pretend you do. The more you psych yourself up and present yourself as a confident person, you will start believing it.
4.) Be an early bird.
Being young and new to the office, you should get there in the mornings before your boss and other coworkers do. It makes you appear to be a hard worker and helps earn your spot in the professional realm. Another benefit to going in early is having time to peacefully get your day started before the office hustle and bustle.
5.) Dress the part.
Dress for the job that you want. Make sure you always look polished and not like you just rolled out of bed. Also, make sure your attire balances with your work environment. If you work in a formal business office, wear heels, a blazer, and skirt/dress. In a more casual work place, you can wear flats, dark jeans, and a presentable top.
6.) Build office relationships.
Get to know your coworkers. Learn their hobbies, interests, and their work style. It's important to build healthy relationships with the people you work with.You are with your coworkers more hours a week than you are at home. Building concrete relationships will help you feel like a confident, valuable team member.
7.) Change your word choice and speak up.
Get rid of "I think" and "maybe" when brewing new ideas or sharing your opinion. It makes you look unconfident and uncertain about your thoughts. One of the reasons you were hired was for your creativity. Also, don't say "sorry" when it's not necessary. Of course, it's always good to admit that you're sorry and take ownership of your mistakes, but, in a situation where it was not your fault, it's unnecessary. Be strong and share your opinions, thoughts, and creativity.
What have you learned from your first job and how have you executed confidence in the work place?
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