Building the confidence of your team to increase performance

As an experienced professional, you might forget how lack of confidence can really impact your performance. When you do something for the first time, or get given a challenge that feels to great, you might freeze or doubt yourself. You might try a few techniques that might lead to failure, so you doubt yourself more.

The greatest gift you can give your team members is the opportunity to perform and build confidence along the way. You will need to show some compassion and humility as well as championing and showing belief in others. Don't get frustrated or blame. This will only increase feelings of inadequacy.

Give a little nudge

Encourage members to volunteer for a project that will help them build the skills that they need to perform. Encourage them to stretch themselves a little further and have a go. Sign them up to lead a meeting, meet a customer, present or prepare a business case. Be their mentor or buddy them up with a more experienced team member or mentor. 

Visualise the prize

Taking a step up takes courage. If it feels like a push, we feel resentment. If we feel pulled or compelled we feel motivated. For example, If a team member is ready for more responsibility, but feels apprehensive, ask them to visualise themselves in the role. Ask them what it feels like. Ask them what the prize is, the benefits to achieving their goal.

All sports people visualise them crossing the line, scoring that goal, potting that ball. The brain doesn't know whether the vision is imagined or real. This technique will help them grow in confidence and boost performance.

Reality check

Often when we think of a change or step up, we look at all of the things that can go wrong instead of focusing on what can go right. Ask members to write down all of the skills, strengths and knowledge that they already hold that will ensure success. Help them to realise their abilities and see their confidence grow. 

Ask them what they need

We tend to think people are like us and therefore offer the kind of support we need in a situation. We offer advise based on what improves our own performance or gets us in the right mindset. That can make people feel railroaded. Instead, ask them what they need from you. They might need your advice, so then give it. They might need a little hand holding, an introduction or to be left alone for a little while to reflect. Ask them what they need, then give it.

Be honest

Now here is a basic principle for all elements of leadership. Be honest about what you see, what you want and how you see things turning out.  If you really want to boost performance, communicate with clarity and kindness so the other person has all the information to succeed.