How to Show Confidence

Antiperspirant commercials advise consumers that they should never let people see them sweat. While that is not always possible, typically others respond well to confident people. Appearing confident can be one of the deciding factors for job interviewers, according to the University of Arkansas Extension Service. Even if you do not feel confident, portraying confidence is essential. While what you say can show the amount of confidence you have in yourself, your body language speaks louder than words.

Instructions

1. Smile at people when you talk. Typically, people who are secure in their abilities relax during conversations, and smiling indicates comfort with the situation.

2. Look at people when you talk and maintain eye contact. Looking away from the people you are talking with can make them think that you are trying to think about what to say. Confident people are sure about themselves and the ideas that they are conveying.

3. Pay attention to your posture. Confident people stand up straight and keep their shoulders back. Good posture affects the way you think about yourself, leading to self-confidence, according to a study published in the "European Journal of Social Psychology."

4. Speak clearly, using a strong voice. Often, people who are unsure about what they are saying or about themselves mumble or speak fast, making it difficult for a listener to discern their words.

5. Sit still and listen to others when they speak. Confident people have no difficulty listening to another person's opinion or thoughts. Avoid overt hand gestures, but don't be so stiff that you appear tense.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice standing up straight with your shoulders back. Look in a mirror to see the difference between correct and incorrect posture.

• If you are interviewing for a job, research the company and find out all you can about what it does. You will be more confident when you prepare for an interview.

• A strong voice does not mean a loud voice.

• Take care that your confidence does not come across to others as cockiness.

References

• University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service; How to Get a Job; Easter H. Tucker
• So Suave; Confidence -- How to Show it Even if You Don't Have it; Dr. Dennis W. Neder
• American Chronicle; How to Increase Your Confidence With Eye Contact? -- Tips for Sales People; Shabi Guptha; November 2007
• "European Journal of Social Psychology"; Body Posture Effects on Self-evaluation; Pablo Briñol et al; February 2009

Resources

• "Psychology Today"; The Science of Willpower; Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D.; October 2009
• Bloomberg Businessweek; Showing Confidence at the Interview; Francesca Di Meglio; May 2009