
Even though it’s 2018, being a woman in the workplace can still suck sometimes. Try to contain your shock.
Almost 40 percent of women report experiencing sexual harassment at work, and the proportion of Fortune 500 companies led by women is at an all-time HIGH of just 6.2 percent. Women often struggle with confidence at work, and sadly, the “confidence gap” between women and men sets women back even further. Research has shown that simply acting confident can be more important than actually being good at something in the eyes of your peers.
Because of these challenges, building your confidence is crucial to pursuing your goals and feeling good about yourself. Also science says, if you’re female, you’re probably better at stuff than you think.
We asked The Juggle community what makes them feel confident at work. Here’s what they had to say.
When you know your shit
I feel confident when I can teach others something and they get it! I also feel confident when I have good ideas in meetings, or when I can manage the emotions of a room.
— Rachel, 30, finally a real MD, Philadelphia, PA
— Kacie, 26, Beyonce Enthusiast, Austin, TX
When I am answering questions about my area of research and work that the general population doesn’t know. I can sit across from a board and throw out incredibly accurate and up-to-date statistics. It gives me the confidence to know that people rely on me for the dissemination of important information.
— Prisoner Advocate, Ypsilanti, MI
— SP, Brooklyn
— Julia, 29, San Francisco, CA
When you've practiced — a lot
I think when I’ve done a particular task or given a particular presentation before and either know it went well or know what I need to do to make it better. Having experience and previous validation helps me feel confident the second go-round.
— Katie, Philadelphia/New York
— Anonymous
When you receive positive reinforcement (yes, please!)

— Anonymous
— Boring corporate lawyer
When you help others out
— Jennifer, Austin, TX
— Marilyn O, 67, moving toward retirement, Ann Arbor, MI
When you’re all in
— Caroline S., Executive recruiter but really an actress, Los Angeles
— Jennifer L., Atlanta, GA
— Christian, Kiel, Germany
When your concerns are validated
— Danielle Oaks, Boston, MA