Starting a job somewhere new is exciting, but it can also be a bit nerve-wracking. You might find yourself feeling like a kid going to a new school for the first time, nervous about what others might think of you or whether you’ll do a good job.
Whatever the case, there are things you can do to boost your confidence before you start on your new path. Having confidence makes a big difference in how you feel about the work you’re doing, as well as your performance. It can even have a positive impact on your mental health.
So, whether you’re considering changing careers but haven’t left your current job yet, or you’re about to set foot into a new workplace setting, let’s cover a few ways to build your confidence in a new environment and make the most out of this change.
Be Prepared for a Change
If you’re thinking about leaving your current job for something new, it’s important to be prepared in every way. Maybe you’re not happy in your current line of work and that’s sparking your desire to change. But, you don’t want to go into a new job feeling scared and overwhelmed.
Before you leave your current job, make sure you’re financially secure. The last thing you want is to scramble for a new job you don’t necessarily want because you’re not in a solid place, financially. Preparing your finances ahead of time will boost your confidence and give you the time to seek out a job you truly want. Not sure how to put yourself in a solid financial situation? Try some of the following tips.
- Build up your savings
- Reconfigure your financial plan
- Take advantage of your current benefits
- Tweak your budget
Once you start a new job, you can keep yourself prepared by working on a retirement account and taking advantage of your new benefits.
Preparedness goes beyond your finances. Take the time to research different jobs and companies you’re interested in before even applying. The more you know about specific positions, the more confident you’ll be that you can do the job well. If you get called for an interview, try to “rehearse” as much of it as you can before you meet with your hiring manager. Think about what questions they might ask, and how you can respond effectively. Doing so won’t just build your confidence, but it can give you an edge over competitors vying for the same position.
Once you’ve secured an interview, make sure you arrive early and dress appropriately. It’s important to make a good first impression; your appearance is the first thing the interviewer will notice. During the interview, listen carefully to the questions asked and answer them thoughtfully. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you’re unsure about a question. Additionally, practice taking online mock tests and reviewing sample questions to increase your chances of passing exams, such as the SIE if you’re currently working in the finance field. You can find sample questions, take mock tests and a prep test for the SIE exam on free educational platforms such as here.
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Find Ways to Combat Stress
As you prepare to enter a new workplace setting, your confidence can dwindle as stress starts to take over. You can’t boost your self-esteem if worry and anxiousness are standing in your way. Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to reduce daily stress. By starting now, you’ll have the opportunity to stay calm while working on other strategies to build your confidence.
Stress reduction techniques are different for everyone. So, don’t be afraid to try different things to find what works best for you. However, some of the best tried and true methods include
- Exercising
- Eating a healthy diet
- Limiting screen time
- Practicing self-care
- Spending time with people you love
Stress can deplete your self-confidence if you allow it to make you too anxious. It’s understandable to be a little nervous about a new job. But, if you see that your stress is impacting how you see yourself before you enter a new workplace, take the time to relax and de-stress now, so you can focus on confidence builders for this new chapter of life. Finding ways to cope with stress, including distracting yourself and finding things to soothe you, will not only help you now but throughout any intense times or difficult situations you might face. Take time to feel congratulations on your new job.
Boost Your Self-Esteem Every Day
Once you have a better idea of how to manage your stress levels, you can focus on little techniques that will make a big difference in your confidence levels. Some confidence-building activities might seem a bit silly, at first, but they’re effective in making you recognize your value and what you have to offer. The best way to boost your confidence is to accept who you are and choose to love yourself.
That doesn’t mean you need to remain stagnant. There is always room for growth, but you can appreciate your value every step of the way.
If you’re on a path of growth, little things often make a big difference in how you feel and how you see yourself. Try some of the following simple confidence boosters that can impact your self-esteem every day.
- Dress nicely and practice good hygiene
- Banish negative thoughts
- Think and act positively
- Show generosity
- Live a life of gratitude
- Set small goals and work toward them
- Smile
Stepping into a new workplace setting doesn’t have to derail your confidence. Remember, you were hired for a reason. A manager or company owner saw something special in you and chose you above all other competitors. You can take that idea with you into your new job, and use the tips suggested throughout this article to keep building your confidence at work every day.
