Be Confident Whenever You Speak to Others

How you feel directly influences how well you communicate. We can all appreciate, for example, how impossible it is to hide intense feelings of anger or sadness when trying to talk to clients, bosses, or even a loved one. Similarly, your level of confidence shows through as well.

Ideally, before you speak, you should consider what you’re going to say and how you’re going to broach the subject. You should also be sure you have your facts right. Add to the mix how you feel about yourself, which we’ve just explained colors your words, and you have a virtual booklet to read before ever get to open your mouth. If every person was this thoughtful before speaking, the world would know no war and few arguments.

In the realistic world, we all take shortcuts. Every chance we get. Open mouth, insert foot, close mouth. Repeat. If your goal is to communicate clearly, though, you must understand both the internal and the external forces that direct not only the words you speak but the tone of your voice.

Examples in Confidence

Here’s a real-world example. Let’s say you’ve studied the latest Facebook changes for your company. In a meeting the next day, the boss asks for your input on how to best use the social networking site to market your product or services. You realize all eyes will be on you, and the thought terrifies you because you feel self-conscious about your teeth or your weight. When you do finally speak, you keep your eyes on the table in front of you while your voice stays a low mumble. Do you think your boss is going to give your suggestions much credence? Can you imagine them promoting you to a top marketing position? No to both questions.

Here’s another example. Imagine you meant to spend the previous evening on Facebook checking out the latest developments, knowing the meeting was approaching, but you got caught up in a chat with an old high school buddy. The next thing you knew, it was midnight, so you shut everything down and went to bed. At the meeting the following day, anxious to make a big impression with the boss, you start spouting off what little you did discover in your “investigation.” When you can’t answer questions from the floor and begin sputtering, your whole charade comes tumbling down. Do you think you made a very good impression? Will they take you seriously next time you have a suggestion for how to improve the company? No to both questions.

Tips for Self-Confidence

When preparing for a meeting, a party, a networking event, or any gathering with intelligent, important people, start with a little confidence booster. Look directly in the mirror and try to see yourself objectively. Maybe you’ll see that a little blush or hair gel will give you a more polished appearance. Go ahead and add whatever little touches you need to make you feel good about how you look. Then smile at your reflection and tell yourself that you’re ready for the encounter — because no matter who’s in attendance, you got it right!

If your self-confidence is in the toilet for deep-seated reasons that go back to your childhood, consider therapy or a support group. Professional help or support from peers can help you overcome image or confidence issues. No matter how well-versed you are or how much you know about a subject, your words will fall on deaf ears if you don’t believe in yourself and your abilities.

One Final Note

Make sure to get your facts straight. If you ever get caught spouting BS in an effort to impress, your credibility will be shot. Done. Kaput. No matter how good you feel about yourself, keep your mouth closed until you’ve done your homework — all your homework.

A cocky attitude and inaccurate information will likely damage far more than just your presentation. But when you have a solid grasp of the facts and speak without fear or embarrassment, you send a message that you are someone to be taken seriously. Communicate with confidence and put your career on the fast track!

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