Confidence is an important quality to have at work. When you’re confident, your prospects and clients are more likely to trust what you’re saying. Confidence also gives you the courage to speak up with new ideas and communicate with your peers and bosses.

However, research shows that many professionals have fallen into a self-confidence rut. Many women, especially, aren’t feeling super-confident in the workplace, with one recent survey showing that one in two women don’t feel very confident at work.

Fortunately, there are some simple things women (and men) can do to kickstart their faltering confidence. We share tips from Laura Clark, a content marketing strategist, in this issue of Promotional Consultant Today.

1. Know how you work best. Clark says that when you lack confidence, your productivity suffers. The inverse is also true. To boost your confidence, pay attention to when you feel focused and creative, and when you start to get distracted. This can help reduce fatigue and make your work more manageable. You gain more power over your workday and, by extension, more confidence, Clark says.

2. Watch your words. The phrases you use can either boost your confidence or make it more difficult to convey your desired message. For example, instead of saying, “I’m sorry, I just wanted to add …” try saying, “I agree, and I’d also like to add …”

3. Clearly communicate your ideas. If you’re excited about your work, you want to be noticed by those who can help move your career forward, Clark says. To communicate your ideas clearly, she recommends asking how your idea impacts your team and what stakeholders should get involved. Once you have thought through your ideas, tailor your discussion to fit your boss’ personality.

4. Learn to say no. Declining meeting requests or passing on projects and tasks that you just don’t have time for can give your confidence a boost. When you’re confident, you trust yourself to know what’s best for you based on your time, capacity and abilities, Clark says. Make sure others know your boundaries at work.

5. Take responsibility for mistakes. Sometimes, making a mistake can be a confidence-booster. It all depends how you respond. Instead of calling unnecessary attention to the error, Clark suggests speaking directly and assertively to take charge of the situation. Also, avoid over-apologizing. This can make you appear weak. Instead, simply thank the parties involved for their patience and move forward with a solution.

6. Establish small and doable goals. Clark points out that short-term goals are linked with self-confidence. Just be sure to write them down and put them through a SMART goals analysis. Even though they’re small, your goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound.

7. Stay in your lane. It can be confidence-busting if it seems like everyone around you is closing big deals or getting promoted. That’s why it’s important to remember that your career trajectory is unique to you and your strengths, Clark says. Keep your eyes on your own prize.

Everyone experiences dips in their confidence levels. If you feel like your confidence is lagging, try some of the ideas above to get back on track.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers

Source: Laura Clark is a content marketing strategist with global digital marketing experience.