How to Look Confident Even When You’re Nervous

Your level of confidence gives you an advantage in any situation. You’re more likely to ace an interview, charm your date, or convince someone to believe in your new business idea when you’re sure of yourself. In fact, just looking like you’re confident is often enough to make you more persuasive and successful.?

Plus, our behavior tends to shape our thinking, so acting more assertive will help to make your doubts and fears melt away.?

Even if the thought of confronting your boss over a performance review you disagree with or speaking in public makes you nervous, you can appear calm and collected. Try these tips for training yourself to look confident under pressure.?

Using Body Language to Help You Look More Confident:?

1. Adjust your posture. The way you hold yourself and move around plays a big role in determining your mood and how others see you. Make it a habit to sit and stand with your back straight and your shoulders back. Distribute your weight evenly and tighten your abdominal muscles.
2. Make eye contact. Hold your head and your gaze up. If you find it uncomfortable to look someone in the eye, try focusing on different areas of their face for a couple of seconds at a time without significantly moving your eyes. If that isn’t a comfortable situation for you, then focus your gaze on their chin. The results will be about the same.
3. Shake hands. What’s your handshake like? Check that your grip is reasonably firm, and you hold on for about 5 seconds. Working on your handshake may also remind you to keep your hands out of your pockets.
4. Open up. Overall, think in terms of taking up whatever space is available to you. Uncross your arms and legs. Plant your feet about a foot apart. Lean toward someone while they’re talking to you.
5. Slow down. If you tend to move faster when you’re nervous, experiment with doing the opposite. Make your gestures and speech more deliberate and relaxed.
6. Smile wide. A happy face looks more confident and attractive. Think about how you feel when someone beams at you and share that joy with others.?
7. Breathe deeply. Use your breath to calm and center yourself. Lengthening your exhalations helps you to feel braver and manage stress.?
8. Fake it 'til you make it. Sometimes, the best way to feel confident is to act confident. Take a deep breath, stand up straight, and smile. You might be surprised at how much better you feel.?

Other Ways to Look More Confident:?

1. Be prepared. The more prepared you are for a situation, the less nervous you'll feel. Do your research, practice your talking points, and dress appropriately.?
2. Get a haircut. Careful grooming reminds yourself and others that you’re worth caring about. Treat yourself to a makeover. Change your hairstyle or buy a flattering pair of pants.
3. Exercise regularly. It’s easier to look and feel confident when your body is strong and limber. Find a variety of physical activities you enjoy and will want to maintain.
4. Focus on your strengths. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. When you're feeling nervous, focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table. This will help you feel more confident and capable.?
5. Avoid fillers. Upgrade your communications by cutting the “ums” and “ahhs” out of your vocabulary. Replace those fillers with a strategic silent pause instead. Practice this behavior frequently by speaking out loud in a quiet place where nobody can hear you. Your car on your way to work or the store is the perfect place to do this.
6. Prepare small talk. Conversation skills can be learned. If you often struggle to find something to chat about, brush up on interesting news stories or funny anecdotes you can share at parties or networking events. If you have specific individuals you’re seeking to influence, do a quick scan of their LinkedIn, Facebook or other social media profiles to see if there is a nifty new post they’ve added that might make for a great conversation starter.
7. Express interest. Your anxiety levels decrease when you focus on others. Listen attentively, show enthusiasm, and ask relevant questions. You may make new friends and feel more connected to your old ones.
8. Think positive. Pay attention to the things you like about yourself and others. Make a list of the events and experiences that you’re grateful for. Being upbeat will help you to appreciate your strengths and aim higher.
9. Create a mantra. Your self-talk can undermine your efforts or boost your sense of self-worth. Find some words and phrases that lift you up. Post them somewhere you can see them and repeat them to yourself a few times each day.?
10. Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or colleague. They can offer support and encouragement, and help you stay calm and collected.?

It’s natural to feel nervous in high-stakes situations like business presentations and some social situations. The more you practice looking confident, the more effective you’ll become at making a positive impression on others and strengthening your belief in yourself.?

Working with a career coach may also be a helpful resource for you if you’d like to work on exuding more confidence. Please visit this link to schedule a FREE 15-minute coaching consultation and let’s talk about it!?

#personaldevelopment #confidence #success #careercoachDJA

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