The ultimate beneficiary of confident employees is the employer because they contribute more positively, are more productive, and are better motivators and role models. When a team achieves objectives together, it creates the momentum toward building even more success. Teams are more likely to move forward with others and take advantage of opportunities if they are confident; and consequently, confidence is what keeps a team moving forward when or if their first attempt fails.
Self-confidence is a trait that can be learned by anyone; however, it is a fine line. If too much self-confidence is shown, it can come across as being arrogant. When you believe in yourself, you trust in your own worth and abilities. Arrogance is having an inflated belief in yourself. There is definitely a difference.
Team confidence in the workplace looks different for different teams depending on their specific needs, roles, and the company culture. Generally, team confidence means each employee is welcome to share openly and take chances without fear of failure. Communication must be a priority for leaders and team members.
Why should building team confidence be a priority in the workplace?
Increases Achievement
A team with confidence in their abilities is more likely to undertake new projects outside their comfort zone. As a result, they may set and achieve larger and more ambitious goals. This will develop trust and confidence between colleagues as well.
Improves Communication
A team that is more confident will deliver their message clearly. Communication skills and confidence build upon each other. Team members will enjoy working better together as they learn to communicate effectively and clearly with one another and with other stakeholders inside and outside the organization.
Reduces Workplace Stress
If each team member can focus on the tasks they are best at and are able to perform, they will be more confident in their abilities and develop a more positive attitude. The positive attitude then carries over into tasks which are not too fun to do. This positive mindset can only produce a more positive benefit for the team, and in turn, reduce workplace stress.
Assists in Problem-Solving
As each team member is more confident in their abilities, it will increase the likelihood for them to offer new suggestions or be more open to new approaches or solutions to problems. As the confidence is built within a team, the more likely they are to find solutions and complete tasks together. A confident team is the key to success!
Produces Leadership Skills
In order for someone to be in a position of leadership, they must have confidence. Demonstrating the ability to make decisions and take on more responsibility takes confidence, and it breeds even more. Employers and/or managers look for these characteristics when promotions are being awarded or new teams need leaders.
Requires Less Oversight
When you have team members with confidence, you will not need to spend so much time overseeing their work and/or making sure they are on the right course. This results in more time for you and your team to focus on the things that matter and tackle the larger issues that need to be solved.
Encourages Speaking Up
A workplace environment where team members are not afraid to speak up builds confidence. Team members are then not afraid to report bad behavior or come forward with ideas. Missed opportunities to improve your organization or setting up a toxic workplace as bad behavior goes unnoticed is the result of team members who are silent.
Boosts Self-Esteem
Team members with high self-esteem are less likely to put up with bad workplace conditions and bad behavior. They need to feel like they can speak up to help fix the problem. If a team member puts up with these things, they are not helpful.
Confidence in the workplace is becoming more and more important. It may not seem tangible or measurable, but it is increasingly needed as the need for “soft skills” rises. Soft skills are “soft” because they are hard to measure objectively. Soft skills are things such as leadership qualities, being a team player, a good listener, or inspiring an audience. The expectations for leaders and workers have changed, and the aforementioned skills are important to developing confidence in the workplace.
The two main characteristics of confident team members are:
- Self-efficacy. They can perform their work tasks well and are able to succeed.
- Self-esteem. They believe they are a valuable member of the team.
Team members who have both of the above attributes have team confidence. With high self-efficacy, team members also believe they can create change and make a positive difference in the workplace.
Confidence in the workplace builds gradually over time. Let Strategic Practice Solutions, LLC help you with your staffing needs and training. Their extensive dental staffing experience will help fulfill your staffing needs and strengthen your team. The team at Strategic Practice Solutions has been in the dental industry for over 30 years. Contact them today for a strategy to hire talent for your practice.
Strategic Practice Solutions, LLC