Not everyone is naturally confident, especially in the workplace, and sometimes co-workers need a little encouragement. Here are some simple yet effective ways you can help to boost your co-worker’s confidence.
Offer Support
One of the primary forms of encouragement you can offer a co-worker to help them come out of their shell is support. If they are debating going for a promotion, or have an idea but feel too scared to share it; offer them support and encouragement. The minute someone with self-esteem issues feels supported or valued, they will gradually open up more and, as a result, become more involved in the team.
Accept and Embrace Failure
One of the main fears people tend to have that affects their confidence is the thought of failure. Reassure your co-workers that failure is a way to progress and grow, and without it, you wouldn’t be able to improve on your work. If someone is worried about failure, talk them through a time when you’ve failed and how it positively helped you.
Provide Words of Encouragement
If someone doesn’t feel appreciated or isn’t complimented on their hard work, they are less likely to want to continue their efforts. Offering praise and credit where it’s due is one of the easiest ways to make a co-worker feel proud and appreciated, which as a result, will help them become more confident in their abilities and work.
Offer Assistance and Help
Whether or not you’re confident, everyone needs a little help sometimes. The difference is that people who aren’t overly confident will struggle to ask for help. If you see someone struggling with a task, offer your advice, and give them some of your time to talk through what their issue is. Approaching someone in a friendly and welcoming manner while providing your support will instantly make them feel at ease and will most likely make it easier for them to reach out for help in the future.