- Apologize Only When Necessary: Avoid apologizing when it's unnecessary, as it can weaken your authority. Instead of saying, "Sorry for the delay," say, "Thank you for your patience. Why it works: Shifting from an apology to gratitude makes you appear proactive and respectful without undermining your professionalism or confidence.
- Own Your Wins: When someone compliments you, please respond quickly. Swap out "Oh, it was nothing" for "Thank you, I worked hard on that. Why it works: Accepting praise acknowledges your value and reinforces your achievements, showing others you take pride in your contributions.
- Slow Down to Stand Out: Speaking slowly calms your nerves and signals authority. Why it works: A deliberate pace exudes confidence, making your words more impactful and giving others time to absorb your message fully.
- Be Direct When Asking for Support: You can stop prefacing requests with unnecessary apologies and get straight to the point: "I'd appreciate your help." Why it works: Being direct signals confidence in your ask and shows that you're mindful of others' time, which conveys efficiency and respect.
- Harness the Power of Silence: Take your time filling pauses. Strategic silence gives your words more weight. Why it works: Pauses communicate control. You're not rushing or scrambling, which tells people you're confident in your thoughts and their value.
- Eliminate Uncertainty: Stop using "maybe" or "perhaps" to hedge your ideas. Say, "I recommend we…" instead of "Maybe we could… Why it works: When you confidently speak, you inspire confidence in others. This certainty in communication builds trust and influence.
- Ditch Self-Deprecation: Jokes about your shortcomings may seem harmless but weaken your credibility over time. Why it works: Speaking positively about yourself reflects self-respect and capability, ensuring others view you as competent and confident.
- Reframe 'No' with Solutions: Instead of a blunt "no," offer alternatives like, "I'm not available for this, but I can do X, or connect you with someone who can. Why it works: Providing solutions instead of rejections showcases problem-solving skills and positions you as a resourceful team player.
- Replace "Does That Make Sense?": Asking this after explaining something can make you seem unsure. Instead, say, "Let me know if you need further clarification. Why it works: This frames you as clear and concise while leaving room for open communication without undercutting your message.
- Turn "I Don't Know" Into a Strength: Don't be afraid to admit when you don't have all the answers. Say, "I'm not certain, but I'll find out. Why it works: Admitting gaps in your knowledge shows self-awareness, honesty, and a willingness to learn—traits of strong leaders.
- Cut Out Filler Words: Words like "um" and "like" dilute your message. Practice silence instead. Why it works: Eliminating filler words sharpens your communication and shows you're fully in control of your thoughts.
- Master Your Body Language: Replace nervous habits (like nail-biting) with neutral gestures, such as calmly folding your hands. Why it works: Controlled body language projects confidence and composure, especially in high-pressure situations, ensuring you appear in command.
Why Confidence is Key: Confidence isn't just about what you say—it's how you say it and carry yourself. These shifts will help you project confidence, allowing you to communicate more effectively, build trust, and gain the respect of those around you. Commanding confidence at work can be the difference between being seen as capable and extraordinary.
P.S. Do you know someone who could benefit from this advice? Feel free to share! Let's elevate each other!
P.P.S. Follow me for more practical, no-nonsense career insights that get results!
#CCWM—If you'd like to chat with a career coach and explore how I can support your journey, I'd love to connect! Please feel free to schedule a complimentary 30-minute session with me here. https://calendly.com/mia-j-kennedy/free-30-min-introduction-call
