How to be more confident-even when you’re nervous!
No one feels confident all the time, but sometimes you need to show up your best confident self regardless. You might be meeting your partner’s parents, on a job interview, or at company meeting. There are times it can be helpful to appear confident even if you are not feeling confident. No more faking until you make it. Instead apply these tips to show the confidence you already own.
1. Maintain good eye contact. Consider where confident people look while you are engaged in conversation with them. They aren’t looking at their feet or playing with their phones. They look you in the eye. Be care not to stare, but look the other person in the eye the majority of the time. I teach my clients '‘the gaze” this helps to be more comfortable with direct eye contact.
2. Have great posture. Confident people don’t slouch. Stand tall and proud. The same goes for sitting. People with good posture tell the world they are confident without saying a word. Slouching makes you appear small. Stand or sit up straight and make people take notice. Try not to sit all the back in a chair. This will make you sit more erect.
3. Keep your hands out of your pockets. In some cultures hiding your hands is a sign of distrust. Showing your hands is also showing confidence. Keep your hands in plain sight where they can be seen. This also reducing fidgeting.
4. Avoid fidgeting. Playing in your hair, face, or clothes is clear sign you are nervous. Try your best to avoid it.
5. Smile. I know you may hear this a lot and that’s because it’s true. A true authentic smile is the quickest way to persuade someone in your favor. A smirk however is the fastest way to lose someone’s trust so be genuine and SMILE.
6. Put the phone away. Being more concerned about your phone then the people in front of you is rude. People should always take precedence over your phone. Your phone is an easy scapegoat when you are nervous. Avoid your phone and be present in the moment instead.
I hope you found this helpful! If you would like more tips sign up for the mailing list below.