A vulnerable time when confidence drops

4/5/2021

I learned something new about confidence, that I want you to know about.

You know that confidence influences effective leadership.

We have confidence in leaders when we know they have confidence in themselves.

What I learned last week is how vulnerable our confidence can become when we take on stretch assignments in a new role.

When you get promoted due to your talent in your last role, your confidence is very high. In your new role, however, everything changes: you have more projects to manage, more direct reports to lead, and bigger strategic issues to deal with. In your new role, you inevitably run into challenges which put dings in your confidence.

You knew how to do your old role. Now, you start to doubt your abilities, to overuse your strengths to the point where they become weaknesses. The harder you strive, the more frustrated you end up.

Whether you are the person beginning a new role or the direct manager of someone taking on a new role, if your (or their) performance isn't what it used to be, ask yourself "Could this be a confidence issue?" And if it is, how do I get clear on the new definition of success and apply my key strengths and talents in just the right way to be successful.

Here is your first answer: Take the time to think and plan.

When you do, that confidence destroying overwhelm disappears and your confidence returns. Both you and your direct manager will be on your way to the successful outcomes you both envisioned.

Never underestimate the power and impact of your own confidence or the confidence of someone on your team who is struggling with the demands of a new role.

Lastly, having a supportive network you can tap into or a leadership coach you can call on is invaluable when it comes to keeping your confidence high.

How have you adapted to a new role? What have you done to boost your own confidence?

Now let me share some opportunities with you:

If you are a manager, check out the next Women Managers Cohort kicking off on April 15 at https://www.wiseleader.net/women-managers-cohort.html

Are you a woman executive at the VP or Director level? Check out the Executive Womens Change Leadership Roundtable. The 2021 membership year kicks off on April 22. Reach out to me directly for availability and an interview.

And if you a leader who would prefer one on one coaching, reach out to me about a variety of coaching programs that can be customized for your specific outcomes.

Warm regards,