I’ve found writing this book exciting. Exciting because it covers areas of self-confidence in the workplace not focused on before in one neat volume. And exciting because it pulls together so much of what I’ve learned about the importance of confidence in the workplace through coaching clients and supervising other coaches. There are so many tasks and situations that people hesitate to say they would like help with, for fear of appearing that they are not on top of the job.
The subject of confidence came on to my radar by accident, really. As a chartered psychologist and life coach facilitating workshops in a range of settings, the question of confidence was one that came up again and again, no matter what the main topic was. So coaching and training on presentation skills, stress management, public speaking, interview skills, negotiation, assertiveness, meeting and committee skills, and so many others would come down to confidence.
It’s an unusual person who hasn’t had concerns, and felt a lack of confidence, when starting a new job, giving their first presentation, giving a talk to a group of peers, moving up to management, or making a pitch to an important potential client. It’s completely to be expected to feel a little apprehensive when attempting anything new, especially if it’s important to us and our future success.
However, with stress levels and demands at work consistently high, and job security consistently low, being able to do your job more effectively and to worry less about it, has never been more important to your personal well-being. But also, if you, and your colleagues, can feel more confident at work, your performance will be more effective, and this will have these important broad-ranging implications and repercussions:
Overall, your well-being, that of those around you, and also of your organisation, will improve. And I find it exciting that my background and experience as a trainer, coach, writer and chartered psychologist, has come together so usefully in writing this book. So, whatever it is you feel you want to deal with more confidently at work, you should find some effective and direct guidance here. No gimmicks, no flavour-of-the-week quick fixes. Just sound and sensible information and recommendations, gleaned from decades of experience helping people build confidence in these areas.
I want to show you the skills that will build and maintain your self-confidence, so that you’re ready for any eventuality. That’s why I’ve tried to create a book that will be a convenient source of expertise long after you put it down for the first time. From presentations, to phone calls, to managing staff, whatever it is you want to deal with more confidently, you’ll find straightforward approaches and know-how, as well as activities that you can use to discover more about yourself, and more about really helpful undemanding strategies that work. This book can sit on your bookshelf as a handy resource to dip into as your circumstances change, and you want to perform better on any unfamiliar situation that has arisen. Just like a manual for your car, I’ve created a self-confidence at work manual for you to put into practice now, and whenever you might need it in the days to come.
Life is 10 per cent what happens to you and 90 per cent how you react to it.
Charles Swindoll, American writer and speaker, b. 1934
You’ll find flexibility and tenacity, as well as confidence, in this book. Together, these will help you stay fit for purpose, with enhanced staying power and resilience. You’ll be thinking ahead of the game, and ready for anything. That way, you’ll be on top of your work, making it so much more satisfying for you, and for those around you. You’ll also perform better, consistently, and still be able to enjoy life outside of the workplace.