Sure-fire ways to increase your confidence at work

Sure-fire ways to increase your confidence at workSure-fire ways to increase your confidence at workWe all know that starting a new job can often be overwhelming,particularly for those starting a first job straight out of school or university where there is added pressure to make a positive first impression.Remembering names, getting used to your commute and adapting to the office culture is bound to be a challenge.It can often be tricky as one of the youngest and least experienced members of your team to build your confidence, however its important to remember that your employer has hired you because of the skills you demonstrated in your interview.Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and moraOften having confidence in your decisions and the assertiveness to complete tasks is what makes a successful employee. Once you meet with your first successes, confidence will come naturally in the mea ntime however there are a few simple top tips you can follow which will help you build your confidence in a new environment.As Principal ofQuest Professional a business school dedicated to equipping A-level and university leavers with the skills they need to succeed in the world of work we spoke with Claire Granados who is used to preparing students with the practical skills they need to succeed when beginning their careers.Here Claire tellsYCBhow new employees can build their confidence through a number of simple and practical techniques1. Prepare to be confidentTaking the time to make a plan and be prepared for any situation that requires you at your fruchtwein confident is really worthwhile and impactful. So ensure you plan in advance of any important events Arrive on time, wear the outfit that makes you feel great and prepare your material even if youre certain you know the subject well Whatever it is that best triggers your personal confidence, recognise it and plan and prepa re on this basis.2. Know your stuffPlanning is an important confidence booster but nothing substitutes for that feeling of really knowing your stuff. So seize every chance to boost your expertise so that you can confidently share your insights, experience and know-how.3. Dont let fear stop youOf course, no one sets out to fail, but its important to recognise failure for what it is a momentary set back and (crucially) an experience to learn from then adapt around. Keep in mind that some of the best entrepreneurs and corporate leaders have had serious failures and setbacks along the way.4. Adopt a positive attitudePositivity is magnetic and can have a profound impact on ourselves and others, so its equally important to allow yourself to be drawn to other positive people. Where possible, identifying a role model who inspires you and encourages you to confront challenges will help you to bridge your confidence gap.5. Be assertiveKnow what you believe in, want to achieve and are prepar ed to work hard for. This naturally gets easier as your confidence develops but the more you step forward and raise your hand, the bolder you will feel about that next promotion, start-up or career adventure.6. SmilePeople with confidence tend to smile more but its a learned skill. You can get used to it by adapting your behaviour around the office, greeting others and asking about their day. Not only will this help you project confidence, youll probably find it changes your own attitude and gives you a more positive outlook something which is highly contagious. Confidence is reflected, so by appearing confident yourself youll find that your team will not only believe in your abilities but will feel more optimistic themselves.This article originally appeared on Your Coffee Break.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people