Unveiling The Path To Credibility

The workplace is a dynamic and competitive realm in which credibility shapes careers, defines influence, and paves the way for remarkable opportunities. It empowers individuals to navigate challenges, cultivate meaningful connections, and drive transformative change.

Employees encounter unique challenges and incredible prospects as they build and nurture credibility in their professional lives. Establishing and enhancing credibility marks a journey of empowerment that unlocks recognition and opportunities. At Parsons, we are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace as an equal-opportunity employer. Diversity is ingrained in who we are and how we do business and is one of our company’s core values.

This article was put together to capture the key messages that came out of a virtual internal event hosted by our Women’s Roundtable, one of the Employee Business Resource Groups, that Fay Niewiadomski, Ph.D, (ABD) and Tania Massie delivered on ‘Building Credibility In The Workplace.’ The event was a success and held tips and tricks to help you in your professional journey.

Take a look at the below to help you build on your professional credibility persona.

The "Blending In" Trap

The tendency to blend in and avoid drawing attention is a pitfall that many encounter. While this might seem safe, it can inadvertently hinder career growth and credibility. Try to be yourself and stand out when appropriate.

The "Standing Out" Advantage

Individuals who confidently embrace their unique qualities, skills, and perspectives tend to be memorable and influential. Standing out opens doors to opportunities, leadership roles, and the potential to inspire others.

Strategies To Stand Out With Credibility

1. Identify Your Strengths: Emphasize the unique skills that set you apart.
2. Speak Up: Share insights in meetings and discussions.
3. Take Initiatives: Propose ideas, lead projects, and showcase your confidence.
4. Seek Visibility: Present workshop presentations and build your brand.
5. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and enhance your skills.

Emotions - The Heart Of Credibility

Did you know the word "emotion" comes from the Latin word "e-motion," which means "what drives us to move or create an action"? Understanding this origin sheds light on how emotions influence credibility.

Effective Communication And Emotions

1. Effective Communication: Emotions add depth and impact to messages, making them memorable.
2. Authenticity: Genuine emotions enhance credibility and trust.
3. Empathy and Connection: Emotions forge connections and rapport.
4. Self-awareness: Understanding emotions improves leadership and credibility.

Mastering The Art Of Effective Communication

Several essential skills can help build strong relationships and credibility, including:

1. Active Listening: Giving your full attention and feedback builds trust and open communication.
2. Assertive Communication: Expressing needs and opinions fosters respect and constructive dialogue.
3. Avoiding Qualifiers And Hedgers: Confidence in ideas without weakening language enhances credibility.

Hedgers And Qualifiers

Hedgers and qualifiers are used in communication to soften statements' impact or express uncertainty. In building credibility in the workplace, using hedgers and qualifiers can negatively influence how your message is perceived and can impact your overall credibility.

Hedgers: Hedgers are words or phrases that introduce caution or uncertainty into a statement. They can make the speaker sound less confident or assertive. For example, using terms like "I'm not sure," "I think," "maybe," "sort of," or "kind of" are examples of hedging language. While they can be useful in situations where genuine uncertainty exists, overusing hedgers might convey hesitancy and undermine your credibility.

Qualifiers: Qualifiers are words that weaken the strength of a statement or claim. They indicate that the speaker is not making an absolute or definitive assertion. Examples of qualifiers include "usually," "sometimes," "often," "possibly," "likely," and "probably." Like hedgers, qualifiers can make your statements appear less confident and diminish the impact of your message.

When aiming to build credibility in the workplace, it's important to communicate with confidence and clarity.

The Vital Role Of Self-Confidence

Self-confidence is key to:

1. Influence And Leadership: Confident leaders inspire and guide teams.
2. Seizing Opportunities: Self-assured individuals proactively tackle challenges.
3. Balancing Confidence And Humility: Belief in abilities with humility is essential for credibility.

Cultivating A Strong Personal Brand

Personal branding intentionally shapes your professional image based on your values, skills, and expertise. Authenticity is the core principle. This can be achieved in several ways, including posts on social media, speaking at events, and writing thought leadership pieces or white papers for blogs, peer-reviewed journals, or magazines.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is common and can impact confidence but with self-awareness, it can be overcome. The below tips can help you feel more comfortable in the position you are in and regain that confidence in yourself.

The Power Of Self-Awareness And Harnessing The Power Of Who You Are

• Acknowledge imposter feelings as common.
• Reflect on your accomplishments and skills.
• Seek support from trusted colleagues or mentors.
• Identify and embrace your unique strengths.
• Shift your focus from perfectionism to growth.
• Celebrate your successes and acknowledge hard work.

A Cornerstone Of Trust, Respect, And Influence

Credibility is the linchpin that unlocks your journey to success. By standing out, effectively communicating, harnessing emotions, and embracing self-confidence, you build a professional reputation that opens doors to opportunities, growth, and fulfillment. Remember, your unique contributions matter – and they shape your career and the entire workplace landscape.

Parsons’ efforts to celebrate diversity create an open environment where employees are empowered and engaged, engender community, and foster the innovation vital to the company’s future.??We have been listed as a destination employer focused on DEI and recognized by Forbes, the Human Rights Campaign’s Equality Index, Ethisphere, and other publications for our achievements in DEI.

Interested in joining a team that supports their employees? We are hiring! Take a look at our open opportunities here. #WeAreParsons #ParsonsCareers