At one time or another most of us have found ourselves sitting over cocktails with co-workers discussing a surprise promotion. How did she get that job? She didn’t seem particularly knowledgeable or capable and is quick to toot her own horn when you stayed modestly mum about your accomplishments. So how is she on the 27th floor while you’re still on the 2nd?
A study done by Dr. Cameron Anderson at the University of California at Berkeley confirms that gnawing hunch you’ve tried to stifle….in hiring and promotions confidence often trumps experience, know-how and capability.
While Dr. Anderson hopes his study will result in more focus on ability over confidence, Libby Gill sees the results as a roadmap to success.
“Assuming that you are already among those talented and competent professionals,” Gill said, “here are some proven strategies to help you begin to demonstrate a higher level of confidence so you can get to the next level of your career.
Participate at meetings. If necessary, prepare some data or comments ahead of time so you’ll have something relevant to say. Force yourself to speak more often than you normally do, even if you consider it “too much.” (This is doubly true for introverts.)
Check the news. When you know the latest about world news, company updates, the stock market, or sports scores, you’ll be able to make small talk. Women, if you know sports, jump into the dialogue. Most people will assume you don’t know a hockey puck from a baseball and it’s up to you to prove them wrong.
Head for the person standing solo. At a networking event, after you get your beverage, head for someone who is standing alone. Chances are, they’re as lost as you are. Ask how long they’ve been involved in the organization, how they spend their time (as opposed to the utterly obnoxious “what do you do?”) or where they’re from. Get the conversational ball rolling – just remember to do your part, that is, talk.
Sit in the front. When I taught a course at California State University, I used to joke that students who sat in the front got automatic A’s. Most people, and not just students, enter a conference, training session or meeting and head straight for the back of the room. Resist the urge to hide out and instead be a presence at whatever event you’re attending. Ask questions, chat with your peers, introduce yourself to the presenter. If you act like a person who deserves some attention, you’ll get it.
Dress well. Being carefully groomed can immediately boost your confidence. If you don’t know what that means in your world, it’s well worth the investment in a personal shopper or stylist. In general, dress a notch above your customers, clients and colleagues, without looking like you’re headed to a funeral or job interview.
Focus on contribution. Get your attention off yourself by adding value to other people’s projects and priorities. Whether it’s a brainstorming meeting, company gathering or community event, doing a solid for someone else is always classy.
Join Toastmasters. A great non-profit organization that’s been around since 1924, there are more than 13,500 clubs in 116 countries – all dedicated to helping you speak more confidently. Check out Toastmasters.org to find a location near you.
Final word of advice? Get out there and fake it ‘til you make it!”
See you on the 27th Floor!