So far in my latest series of blogs I’ve considered the meaning of self-confidence and equipped you with several easy methods to boost your self-confidence.

I now want to discuss why self-confidence is so important in the workplace.

If you ask most people for their advice on how to do well at work, the likelihood is you’ll receive responses along the lines of ‘be more confident.’

In a recent survey by leading global recruitment website Indeed, 94% of employees cited self-confidence as vital to completing daily work tasks and contributing to overall career growth. Furthermore, 98% of respondents said they performed better when they felt more confident (Source: www.indeed.com/lead/confidence-at-work).

It’s only human and natural to worry about making mistakes, but a lack of self-confidence in the workplace can prevent you from reaching your full potential. It can also hinder your professional development by affecting your beliefs on how well you complete tasks.

So, let’s consider a few examples of why self-confidence is so massively important on the job.

Enhanced productivity

Whilst fear gets you behind, confidence gets you ahead! When you’re confident, you’ll naturally take on more responsibility and bigger tasks – therefore expanding your output.

Improved communication

Entrepreneur Richard Branson, founder of the global Virgin Group, once said: “communication is the most important skill any leader can possess.”

Indeed, when you’re not consumed by fear and inhibitions, you can more clearly and effectively express your opinions and ideas.

No matter what industry or profession you’re involved in, communication is key. Therefore, if you’re confident and communicate clearly, it follows that you’re more likely to succeed.

Respect

You can’t get respect for free!

You must earn it, and confidence can help with this. If you know your worth as both a person and an employee, your colleagues will absolutely respect you for it.

Stay ahead of the game with assertiveness

When you’re confident in the workplace, you’re taken more seriously.

Your peers and your superiors trust you, which in turn helps advance your career.

Prove to your colleagues you can handle it - be confident, take charge, and you’re sure to get ahead.

Look out for the last blog in this series – “What are the benefits of self-confidence?”

If you need further information about this approach, or any other resilience topic, please contact russell@theresiliencecoach.co.uk.