#1) Make eye contact
Whether you’re giving a presentation to a roomful of people or negotiating a better deal on a car repair, making eye contact is key. When you’re so focused on what you’re saying or doing it can be easy to talk to others without actually looking at them. Making eye contact displays that what you have to say is important.
#2) Don’t lead with a disclaimer
Never minimize or apologize before saying what you need to say, like: “I don’t know if this will work, but…” or “This might not be what you were thinking of, but…” or “This is gonna sounds strange, but…” Instead of giving someone a reason to discount what may be an awesome idea, present it without any of your judgments and then let them decide what they think. You’ll be surprised at how much people will trust you when YOU trust yourself!
#3) Stand up while you’re on the phone
This works! Get up out of your chair while you’re on an important call—whether it’s to your insurance provider or a potential employer––can help make your voice sound more authoritative.
#4) Avoid turning statements into questions
Tell someone what you’re thinking, don’t ask them. People do this in mundane circumstances, like when ordering food or responding to simple questions.
To overcome this habit, keep the three “Ds” in mind: Be DECISIVE, DEFINITIVE and DELIBERATE. Never answer a question with a question!
#5) Make yourself visible at meetings
When it comes to commanding authority, having height helps. You want to stand as often as possible. This means rising when someone comes to chat with you at your desk or standing, when appropriate, during meetings. If all of the chairs are taken, that’s GREAT!! Then you’ll be forced to stand, which will automatically give you a bigger presence in the room.
#6) Dress the part
Dressing for success doesn’t necessarily mean you need to be rockin’ a power suit. But make a note of what everyone else is wearing, and emulate their style in your own confident way. If the dress code at work is slacks and a button-down shirt, invest in a few sharp-looking separates that will ensure you fit in with the office culture.
#7) Manage your boss’s expectations
Are you someone that frequently gets asked to stay late and help out, or do extra work?
Think that promising to tackle that giant pile of reports by 5 p.m., despite having no experience with accounting, will get you more points with your boss?Offering to take on work that is outside your area of expertise won’t impress anyone—especially when you turn in a less-than-stellar final product. On the other hand, avoiding projects like the plague won’t impress your boss either, since being a team player is essential for career development. If you’re asked to do (or want to volunteer for) something that you know you can’t handle alone, be honest about your limitations. Say something like: “I’m always up for learning, but this project will take me a little bit longer and I may need a few extra resources.” People will respect you more for being honest and direct instead of taking on the assignment, turning it in late and/or not doing it as well as it could’ve been done.
If you’re thinking about Confidence Coaching, please feel free to call or email me to discuss the different packages I offer. I’d be happy to assist you in determining which program would be most beneficial to you in your life right now. Contact me now-CLICK HERE!
