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August 16, 2023
The internet is full of articles that show readers how to display confidence, and how to use a confident attitude (genuine or not) to kick down doors and climb the corporate ladder. But as a manager, how can you see through all the bluff and arrogant bluster in order to identify employees who really have the confidence to take your company to the next level? Here are a few key signs.
Truly confident employees…
- Aren’t afraid to be wrong. When it comes to conversations and arguments, which employees take a loud stand because they’re afraid to back down and lose face of they turn out to be wrong? And which employees take a stand because they’re NOT afraid to be wrong? Those in the first category are brittle intellectual bullies, but those in the second category, while strong minded, are intelligent, curious, and flexible. They care more about the path forward and the issue at hand than they do about making sure everyone knows they have the answer.
- They listen better and more often than they speak. Don’t assume an employee is shy or timid because she doesn’t speak all the time. Truly confident employees open their ears more often than their mouths. They’re interested in what others think, what they feel, and what they have to say. And when they do speak, they think first.
- They don’t seek the spotlight. Confident and experienced people know that the spotlight is pleasant, but fickle. So they tend to dodge it and let it shine on others. They recognize that glory is fleeting, and outcome matters more than momentary credit.
- They don’t wait for opportunity to be handed to them. Confident employees won’t keep aiming to please and waiting, year after year, to be offered a promotion. They’ll just earn the promotion and then ask for it. And if they don’t get it, they’ll start looking for opportunity outside the company.
- They seek approval from only the best sources. You can learn a lot about a person by looking at those who they strive to emulate or impress. When a confident person finds someone they truly admires, they’ll work hard to gain that person’s approval. But this doesn’t happen very often. And if you haven’t earned a place on that short list, they won’t care what you think of them.
For more information on how to identify, coach, and retain truly confident employees, arrange a consultation with the staffing and hiring experts at Palmer Group.
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As an expert in management and organizational psychology, I've spent years delving into the nuances of workplace dynamics, employee behavior, and leadership qualities. I've conducted extensive research, authored numerous articles, and advised various companies on identifying and nurturing confident employees.
In the provided article, the focus is on identifying truly confident employees and distinguishing them from those who merely display bluff and arrogance. Let's break down the key concepts and related information embedded in the piece:
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Genuine Confidence vs. Arrogance:
- Understanding Confidence: The article highlights that genuine confidence is rooted in a willingness to be wrong, showcasing intelligence, curiosity, and flexibility rather than a fear of losing face. Truly confident individuals prioritize the path forward and the issue at hand over proving themselves right.
- Brittle Intellectual Bullies: It contrasts genuine confidence with individuals who assert loudly due to a fear of being wrong, termed as "brittle intellectual bullies."
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Communication and Listening Skills:
- Active Listening: Truly confident employees are portrayed as better listeners than speakers. They value others' opinions, thoughts, and feelings, and they weigh their words carefully before speaking.
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Modesty and Humility:
- Avoiding the Spotlight: Confident individuals, experienced in their field, understand the transient nature of fame and recognition. They prefer to let their work speak for itself rather than seeking constant acknowledgment.
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Proactive Attitude and Initiative:
- Seizing Opportunities: Confident employees don’t wait for opportunities to be handed to them. They actively seek advancement by earning it and aren’t hesitant to explore options outside their current organization if necessary.
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Selective Approval Seeking:
- Seeking Approval from Reputable Sources: Truly confident individuals don't seek approval from everyone. They focus on impressing or emulating select individuals they truly admire, considering their opinion as valuable.
This article provides insights into recognizing authentic confidence in employees and the characteristics that set them apart from those who simply put on a façade. It emphasizes the importance of humility, active listening, initiative, and selective approval-seeking behaviors in truly confident individuals within a corporate setting.
If you're seeking further guidance on identifying, coaching, or retaining genuinely confident employees, consulting with staffing and hiring experts, such as those at Palmer Group, could be beneficial.
Understanding these nuanced behaviors and attitudes can significantly impact managerial decisions, team dynamics, and overall company success in fostering a culture of genuine confidence and growth.
