You already know that a strong professional reputation is invaluable—how you work and interact day to day speaks volumes about how you perform as an individual and indicates your ability to deal with complex situations. But what can you do if you feel like you’re not showing off your A-game?
Well, you could work longer hours, answer emails faster, or schedule more meetings just for the sake of it. But according to Psychology Today, there’s a way better way to improve your professional reputation, and that’s through building self-trust.
I know it sounds strange, but stick with me. Studies show that the main way to become more reliable, as well as be viewed as more reliable by your co-workers, is by trusting yourself more.
What exactly is self-trust, you ask? It means having faith in your own ideas, motives, and intentions. In other words, you will go with your gut and follow your own advice because you honestly think that it is worthy of being listened to.
The easiest way to improve self-trust is by following through with what you say you will do. When you hold yourself accountable to your promises, you are more likely to do the same with others. That exchange of accountability allows you to build trust with others and with yourself. Your professional reputation will improve because you are more responsible, and people know that you stick to your word.
Moral of the story? Trust yourself, and others will do the same. Get ready to watch your professional reputation shine.