Regarding your career, it’s easy to let yourself fall into the cracks. In fact, complacency can be the biggest killer of motivation. Think about it, you work at an organization where your job is just a piece of what keeps the company going every day. And sometimes, you may think, “What value do I really bring to the table?”
The answer to that question is “a lot, but it could always be more”. Believing that you could contribute more professional value is going to take some work. But once you start believing it, the rest will come easy to you. Below are some ways to build your professional confidence and eventually, become an irreplaceable asset in your career field.
Build your experience.
This may seem like common sense, but this can also be one of the most overlooked tasks when building a professional resume. Just because you have a full-time job in your career field, that doesn’t mean you’re necessarily building experience.
For example, I currently hold the title of Media and Events Coordinator. The bulk of my responsibilities include social media, event planning, promotions and news interviews. But in order for me to grow in my career field (public relations), I have to be well-versed in every area of PR, including writing. I don’t get as much experience in writing from my job, so I chose to build my experience elsewhere. By maintaining this blog (as well as taking a couple positions as a freelance writer), I get to build on my writing skills all the time!
Take the time to build the experience you want. Whether it be through blogging, volunteering, or a part-time job, be efficient with your time and make your professional experience a priority.
Study in your free time.
The best thing you can do is continue to learn, even after you’ve graduated from college. Find things that garner your interest. Take some online courses, listen to webinars, read white papers…whatever it takes. With the increase in technology that we experience every day, it’s important for us to stay on top of the latest industry trends. The world is changing at a faster rate than ever before, and if you’re not riding that wave, you’ll easily get left behind.
Follow thought leaders.
I love following thought leaders in my industry because they’re always the first to know the latest trends. Their voices are so influential to the industry, that they often become a catalyst for change. Not to mention, thought leaders can help you grow and expand your mind in ways that you never have before. Pay attention to the influential voices in your industry. They may even inspire you to become a thought leader one day.
Which brings me to my last point…
Create something of your own.
The confidence that comes with owning your own blog/business/product/service/group/podcast, etc. is something that can change your life. Even if it doesn’t relate to your industry specifically, having your own side gig can help enhance your sense of self. The responsibility of maintaining your own business makes you accountable. And handling that accountability can help build your professional confidence, if done the right way.
Confidence in the professional world can go a long way. With confidence, you can take on projects that you never thought possible. With confidence, you can lead a group to victory and inspire others. With confidence, you can become your best self.
What other ways do you build your professional confidence? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below!