In this episode, Alison Bell from Bell HR and Jennifer Brown from J7 Evolve Limited discuss the challenges of building and maintaining confidence in the modern workplace, where flexibility, creativity, and innovation are increasingly valued.

Some of the key points we discuss in this episode are:

1. In the past, structured work environments with clear expectations and training helped build confidence, but the modern workplace's emphasis on flexibility and creativity can lead to dips in confidence.

2. Overwhelm, one of the worst things for our brains, can significantly impact confidence levels, especially in an increasingly complex and demanding work environment.

3. Confidence ebbs and flows, and even seemingly confident people may have moments of self-doubt or imposter syndrome, as evidenced by celebrities like Tom Hanks, Lady Gaga, and Michelle Obama.

4. Managers have a duty to provide clarity and direction to their team members, and if they lack this from their own superiors, they should seek it out to better support their team.

5. A healthy level of pressure can optimise performance, but when it becomes overwhelming stress, it needs to be addressed.

Some of our tips for building confidence at work are:

1. Recognise that feeling a lack of confidence is human and give yourself a break from perfectionism.

2. Identify the specific situations or tasks that trigger a lack of confidence and explore the reasons behind those feelings.

3. Visualise yourself in those challenging situations, acting and feeling confident, as this can help your brain release endorphins and build confidence.

4. Seek support from a trusted mentor, coach, colleague, or friend who can provide both empathy and constructive feedback.

5. Reflect on your feelings and experiences out loud, as verbalising can help you recognise and address the issues affecting your confidence.

Remember, confidence is not a static state, and it's normal for it to fluctuate. By understanding the factors that influence your confidence and employing strategies to build and maintain it, you can navigate the challenges of the modern workplace more effectively.

Contact Information:

Alison Bell of Bell HR: https://www.bellhrconsulting.co.uk or on linked in https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-bell-a726a824/

Jen Brown: J7 Evolve Limited, Home - J7 Evolve and connect on LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/j7evolve.