The Complete Guide to Staying Confident in a Competitive Workplace
As far as the workplace is concerned, times are certainly changing. You’re no longer confined to a dedicated workspace with specific duties. The employees who are treasured are the ones who contribute the most to the organization.
With less jobs available these days, you have to work harder in order to keep yours. And that includes staying on top of your game in a competitive workplace.
But that's sometimes easier said than done. And that's because you may not be as confident in your abilities. It could also be that you’re unsure if you deserve consideration over someone else.
Put all of that self-doubt behind you! That way, you won't have to worry about losing out on opportunities.
Try these techniques to stay confident on the job:
1. Keep your skills current.
Stay current on all certifications and highlight your on-going achievements. When you keep your skills current, they can serve as your face of confidence. It puts you on a level playing field or even above everybody else.
Now you just need to show why you're a step above the competition!
In most fields, there are usually mini-courses that can help you earn a more recognized certification.
Consult your company's newsletter. This helps you see the plans that are underway. With that knowledge, you can start to learn specialized skills that may be needed in the future.
2. Volunteer for unpopular jobs.
Everybody is eager to go after the popular jobs that get a lot of attention. Sure, you can join the gang and do the same. But it's also a good idea to go after the unpopular ones.
You never know who's watching! While everybody's eyes are on the prized jobs, there may be one scout watching over the unpopular jobs. Let that scout see you handling things effectively.
You may end up gaining additional skill sets just by going after something off the radar.
A little gloating doesn’t hurt. If you've done something worth recognition, it doesn’t hurt to point it out. Certainly, you don’t want to be tooting your own horn all day, but a little goes a long way.
In a team effort, certainly everyone’s contribution should be highlighted. If you aren't recognized on a project, find a creative way to get the word out about your personal contribution.
4. Put your strengths on display.
You might be hired as an account executive, but you could have great accounting skills. They won't know until you tell them!
On occasion, you can send an email to your department head. Advise them of your availability to assist on a project unrelated to your field. That's a subtle way to say, "Hey, I'm good at this, too!"
Volunteer for projects whenever possible. Be sure that you have the skill sets needed to do an effective job. The company always takes note of skills on display, especially at a crucial time for the business.
If you know you have an innate skill that sets you apart from everybody else, show it!
5. Give 100% effort.
Even when you're not feeling confident, give it everything you have. The effort you put into your job displays commitment and interest in the company.
So as you see, staying confident in a competitive workplace isn’t that difficult. Rely on your natural abilities. They can definitely speak for themselves if you give them a voice!
By following these guidelines, you can rest assured that you’ll stand out and make a lasting impression at your workplace.