Recently a client asked me what the single most important aspect of coaching is that changes people’s lives.

My answer was simple and unequivocally clear: coaching is a confidence booster.

An upward moving spiral: For most of us, confidence is in large part self-perpetuating. The better you feel on the job, the better your performance and there happier your clients, boss and colleagues are. That success will help you “switch off” during personal time, be more fulfilled and give you more energy at work, which, with the additional confidence, will further improve performance, which is confirmed by people around you in both your professional and personal spheres.

How does it actually happen? For most of us, we gain boosts by other people approving our ideas and performance. Usually it’s about getting that “approval” of your ideas before you implement them; you want support before you actually have the guts to do it. Getting others saying yes reinforces your positive self-image, giving a boost to that internal voice saying you can do it!

Three simple tricks: You can boost your confidence with some simple tricks:

1. Start small: focus on easy wins first

2. Be positive: phrase actions in optimistic terms

3. Create buy-in: make it relevant to the other party

Remember others struggle the same way and also want to be successful!

Honest & constructive feedback: While these tricks are a good first step, honest feedback is key for effective & quick wins in confidence building. However, many people in your work environment won’t give you honest feedback due to the competitive environment, biases or the risk of hurting your feelings. You also want to discuss ideas without the risk of repercussions of someone who has influence on your career. Working with an outsider, such as a coach will give you a sounding board and act as guard rails of your career.

That is why a coach with the right profile can give you insights, feedback and guidance in the most productive way possible. You’re the engine of your career, nothing changes that. The coach can be big boost to career and confidence.

Please share your thoughts with me. In the meantime, I wish you a great start on Monday morning!