9 Ways to Boost Your Confidence at Work

9 Ways to Boost Your Confidence at Work9 Ways to Boost Your Confidence at WorkThose of you who have been reading my column know that I recently started my own freelance writing business, so, in fact, I no longer answer to a boss.But, for nearly two decades, I did- and I had bosses that intimidated me to the core, I held positions in which I questioned my skills almost daily, and I took on responsibilities that I was certain would expose me as a neophyte.And even now, as a brand-new entrepreneur with new clients, prospecting targets, and niche markets that are altogether unfamiliar, I still sometimes deal with feelings of inadequacy and a lack of confidence on the job.And I know Im not so unusual For many women, feeling insecure at work is a constant struggle. But, its also a major obstacle to achieving our professional dreams and realizing our full potential. So, ladies, weve got to get over it.The good news is, its possible. If you need a confidence boost in your day-to-day routine, check out these tried-and-true tips. Youll bolster your sense of assurance, come off more poised, and kick some butt in the workplace, too.1. Ask QuestionsNot knowing everything- whether thats because youre new on the job or have incomplete information- can make you feel insecure and lead to a lack confidence. But remember that (no matter what stage youre at in your career) youre never going to have all the answers. So dont be shy about asking questions, especially when youre feeling uncertain or insecure. Instead, obere extremitt yourself with the information you need to do your job well by asking for it.2. Be CuriousCuriosity not only sends the message that youre ambitious and eager to learn, it also positions you well to interface with more people and take on new projects. So dont just do the work that comes easily. Try something new, something that scares you just a wee bit- whether thats asking your boss to lead the next client meeting or learning HTML. Youll emerge more confi dent and empowered than if you stick to what you already know.3. Accept that Everyone Makes MistakesIf you always need to be perfect, youll always feel inadequate that standard is wholly unattainable. Everyone makes mistakes on the job. You will too, and thats okay- youll learn from them, and youll move on. Plus, once you let go of the need to be perfect, you free yourself to take risks and take on new responsibilities.4. Go Above and BeyondWith each new assignment, think of ways you can knock the ball out of the park. Can you suggest new ideas, clients, or products? Make a process easier or more streamlined? Or even just get the report on your boss desk three days early? Youll feel better about yourself if you go the extra mile- and youll probably get some good feedback from others, too.5. Ask for FeedbackDont wait to be told that your work stinks or shines- ask for feedback along the way. Doing so demonstrates that you care about your work and want to succeed in your job. Plus, in stead of anxiously wondering what youre doing wrong, youll gain a better sense of your performance, your strengths, and your areas for improvement.6. Find Supportive AlliesSeek out positive co-workers and mentors who support you, who boost you up when youre feeling down, and who can help you succeed in your job and within the company. There are always naysayers and jealous types who want to see you fail, but if you reach out to enough people, youre sure to find a critical mass who have your back. 7. Look the PartTurns out, theres some truth to the old adage, fake it until you make it. Dressing well, having good posture, being friendly, and making eye contact with people will all give the impression that youre confident and in control. And when the rest of the world thinks youre self-assured, youll start believing it, too. So smile, stand up straight, and yeah, go ahead and treat yourself to that new blazer.8. Trust Your GutIf you feel that you work isnt getting you where you want to go, its sure to impact your frame of mind and sense of confidence. So be really honest with yourself about your personal goals and expectations, and make sure that youre being true to them. If you find that youre not able to use your talents to their fullest or your job isnt putting you on the right track for your career, think about how to change your situation- whether its having a discussion with your boss or looking for a new gig.9. Celebrate Your AchievementsIf youve received an amazing performance review or nailed the client meeting youve been stressing over, celebrate- you deserve it Acknowledging those successes and rewarding yourself will remind you how great you really are- and theres no greater confidence boost than a job well done.What tips and tricks help you to feel more confident on the job? Share below,wed love to hear from youPhoto courtesy of Dells Official Flickr Page.