Is a lack of confidence holding you back?


"What is the number one accomplishment in your career that you are most proud of? "

An uneasy pause. A nervous laugh. “Um, Let me see…Give me a minute to think about it.” After several minutes of pondering, the client is able to offer one or two accomplishments that they are proud of. 

This is a common scenario of the first few minutes of a session where I ask a new client to tell me about their career accomplishments. This response is common from clients across industries, titles and education. I choose this question because it gives me a window to how the client views him/herself, what he/she is most passionate about and helps me to understand how to best help them reach their career goals. It never ceases to amaze me how brilliant people in their own right naturally struggle when it comes to talking about themselves. It’s as if they have been conditioned to not celebrate their successes.   

As we continue and I ask them to expand more on their accomplishments they still struggle. I attempt to help them through the process by asking additional clarifying questions that quantify results. Seemingly, they’re comparing their accomplishments to others. They cautiously answer hoping that their answer is “big” enough. They appear to be searching for some grand gesture such as discovering the next BIG thing like a flying car. Somehow they don’t connect their own accomplishments as good enough, despite the fact that they may have saved their company thousands.
As a result of not realizing the full value they bring, their confidence is compromised and it can stick out like a sore thumb. In fact, a lack of confidence can keep a person from the promotion at work or a great candidate from getting the position. Picture going in for major surgery. Despite the number of successful surgeries the doctor may have performed, he seems uncertain when you ask him about his past work. Would you allow that doctor to perform your surgery?  Of course not! You want him to be confident in his ability to perform your surgery. On that note, shouldn't you be confident as well?

Once energized and reminded of their achievements the client's confidence increases and are better prepared for the interview. There are easy ways to quickly build your confidence and realize your value. The following are a few examples:
  • Maintain a healthy and realistic perspective of your strengths and talent. Look for ways to sharpen your skills.
  • Recognize your weaknesses and seek opportunities to improve.  
  • Face your fears head on. (Example: Afraid of public speaking? Join toastmasters.) When your “worst scenario” is no longer a threat, you will actually increase your confidence.
  • Keep a list of your key quantifiable accomplishments. This list will come in handy at review time and when preparing your annual resume (see next bullet point).
  • Each year submit your resume to 5 companies and perform a salary comparison. This will help you gauge your marketability, remind you to sharpen your skills and stay abreast of the skills required in your field. 
When you know your value, you will never have to negotiate your confidence.



Nanette Kirk is the President and CEO of NetKi Enterprises, A resume writing and motivational services company. We are taking a step to improve our perspective and help our clients reach newer heights in their career. To learn more about us or receive career tips and in email go to www.netkienterprises.com or be inspired at www.netkient.com. Follow me on LinkedIn and the NetKi Enterprises Company page on LinkedIn.  


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