Building Confidence in the Workplace: How to Fake It Till You Make It

Confidence is a vital trait in the workplace. It helps you communicate effectively, take on challenges, and inspire trust in colleagues and supervisors. But what happens when confidence doesn’t come naturally? Enter the popular mantra: “Fake it till you make it.” This strategy doesn’t mean being dishonest or pretending to know things you don’t—it’s about adopting confident behaviours while you develop genuine self-assurance.

Why Confidence Matters

Confidence shapes perceptions. When you appear confident, others are more likely to see you as capable and dependable.

According to a study completed by Indeed in 2020, 97% say confidence matters when securing a promotion, and 94% believe it’s a major contributor to overall career growth.?

In the workplace, having (or faking) confidence can open doors to leadership opportunities, challenging projects, and professional growth. Confidence also fosters resilience, helping you tackle setbacks with a problem-solving mindset.

The Art of Faking It

1. Body Language Speaks Volumes: Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and avoid nervous gestures like fidgeting. Standing tall and exuding openness can make you appear more self-assured even when you feel uncertain.
2. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Replace self-doubt with affirming thoughts. Instead of thinking, “I’m not good enough,” tell yourself, “I’m learning and improving every day.” Over time, this shift in mindset will strengthen your belief in your abilities.
3. Dress for Confidence: Wearing attire that makes you feel polished and professional can boost your self-esteem. When you look the part, you’ll find it easier to step into a confident role.
4. Focus on Preparation: Confidence often comes from competence. Take time to prepare thoroughly for meetings, presentations, or tasks. Knowing you’ve done your homework can ease anxiety and enhance your performance.
5. Speak with Authority: Practice clear, deliberate communication. Avoid fillers like “um” and “I think” when expressing ideas. Instead, project your voice and speak with conviction.
6. Ask Questions and Listen: Being curious and engaged can create the impression of confidence. By asking thoughtful questions, you demonstrate initiative and a willingness to learn, which are traits of confident professionals.

Making It Real

As you "fake" confidence, you’ll notice it becoming more natural. Successes—big or small—will reinforce your self-belief, making it easier to approach new challenges with authentic assurance. With time and effort, the gap between pretending and truly feeling confident will close.

“Faking it till you make it” is not about deception, but about practicing the behaviours of being confident while you grow into that identity. Embrace this technique as a stepping stone toward lasting self-assurance, and you’ll find yourself thriving in any professional setting. Confidence isn’t just something you’re born with; it’s a skill you can cultivate—and it starts with the choice to believe in yourself.