Embracing Confidence at Work

Confidence is essential for success in any field, and it's especially crucial for women in the workplace. Unfortunately, women often face unique challenges when it comes to being confident, including societal expectations, stereotypes, and biases. However, with the right mindset and strategies, women can learn to embrace confidence and succeed in their careers.

Here are 6 tips for women to build confidence at work along with some inspiring words of wisdom from some of our amazing female recruiters here at The Candidate:

Believe in Yourself: Recognize your strengths, skills, and accomplishments and remind yourself of them regularly. You have earned your position through your hard work, talent, and dedication, and you deserve to be there.

''This point speaks volumes to me. My life changed when I started my new role after 10 years in my 1st job where I was constantly ‘put down’ and stifled. From the moment that I joined The Candidate, I was encouraged to grow and flourish. For me, confidence comes from within but without the pillars around me, the people who believe in me, not only in my work life but my home life too, my confidence would fall down. These pillars are the scaffolding that hold me up, they give me a boost when I need it.

I feel it is hugely important to remember that confidence needs work, a deep breath before walking into a room of new people, doing some research before attending a meeting, practicing slides to friends or family before presenting.

Another key point is realising that you will never be the best at everything, people have their strengths, and they have their weaknesses. I try hard to improve on both my strengths and my weaknesses and always try to make a call as to when it is best to step up, and when it is best to sit down!'' - Laura Walters - Executive Search Board Director at The Candidate

Practice Self-Care: Taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally is essential for building confidence. Make sure to prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones to help you feel grounded and centred.

''Self-care is extremely important; especially when we get so caught up with work, family, and life in general. I find that going to the gym makes a big difference within my life and gives me a chance to not only improve my fitness but switch off from everything too. I also feel that little things like face masks, getting your nails done, your hair done, going on a walk, having a massage, puppy snuggles or a movie night, etc. also help give you that little extra boost that sometimes we all just need.'' - Ceri Whitney - Senior Recruitment Consultant

Speak Up: Women are often conditioned to be polite and deferential, which can lead to being overlooked or undervalued in the workplace. Make sure to speak up and assert yourself when needed, whether it's sharing your opinion or advocating for yourself.

''I often get told I am 'manly' in the way I do things- I can assure you I am not. I find people (men mostly) aren't always used to a woman who is assured in herself and what she is saying. I'm extremely confident in myself and in my knowledge of my industry (as a previous full-stack developer, it really does get painful listening to people explain to me the basics of HTML/ CSS etc... ). It took me a long time to realise that these, unwarranted negative/ patronising actions are not a reflection of my worth, and now when I encounter this type of behaviour it just highlights to me how insecure the person is in themselves.'' - Ellena Martin - Technology Recruiter

Take Risks: Confidence grows when you step outside of your comfort zone and take risks. Don't be afraid to take on new challenges or try something new, even if it feels scary at first. Every time you push yourself, you'll learn and grow, which will build your confidence.

''Life is all about balance. Reminding yourself that to be your best in your job, personal life and to yourself you need to give 50% to your self-care. This can mean different things to different people. To me ensuring self-care is getting my 5K run before work, meeting a friend for a coffee at lunch or even getting a cheeky Asos order in ready for the weekend!'' - Victoria Fuentes, eCommerce Marketing Recruitment Manager

Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: It's essential to surround yourself with people who support and encourage you. Seek out mentors, allies, and colleagues who are positive influences and can offer guidance and feedback.

It is so important to ensure your close circle is filled with supportive and positive influences who have your best interests. This can extend further than immediate family and friends, it could be work colleagues, neighbours, or who you chose to follow on social media platforms (I follow Steven Bartlett as I find him really inspiring and motivating!). Prioritise quality over quantity for sure! - Rachel Beattie, Recruitment Consultant

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Finally, remember that building confidence is a journey, not a destination. Don't get caught up in the need to be perfect. Instead, focus on progress and growth, and celebrate your successes along the way.

''The more you push yourself, and strive for other responsibilities in work, the more life and professional experience you’ll gain, and ultimately confidence! Confidence can usually stem from the unknown; exposing yourself to new tasks and environments will prepare you for an array of situations, making you feel more confident to tackle any that may arise. Asking for this progress and responsibility will enable you to highlight your expertise to your manager, making you more likely to be considered for further opportunities. Even if you fail, it’s still a positive. No experience is a bad experience, there is always new knowledge to be learned and implemented later in your career/life!'' - Sara Taylor, Creative Recruitment

In conclusion, building confidence is essential for women to succeed in the workplace. By believing in yourself, practicing self-care, speaking up, taking risks, surrounding yourself with positive influences, and focusing on progress, not perfection, you can develop the confidence you need to thrive in your career. Remember, you are capable and deserving of success, so embrace your confidence and go after what you want.

Have the confidence to take hold of your career path, progress and be the woman you're striving to be. We're here to help you take the first step.

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