9 Ways to Show More Confidence in BusinessYou're much more likely to reach out to others about your latest idea or effectively pitch a new client if you feel self-assured.

ByJacqueline Whitmore

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Many entrepreneurs share specific qualities that are vital for starting and growing a business. They are passionate, resilient, focused on opportunities and comfortable with risks. But the quality that might have the most influence over an entrepreneur's success isconfidence.

You're much more likely to approach a stranger about your latest business idea or effectively pitch a new client if you feel self-assured. Most of the activities an entrepreneur participates in every day (product launches, critical business decisions, even board meetings) require some level of confidence.

If you want to achieve great success, you must believe that you are worthy. Here are some helpful hints for boosting your confidence in yourself and your business.

Related:Lewis Howes On Being Confident: 'Own Who You Are'

1. Package yourself for success.

When you look the part, you'll carry yourself with more confidence. Dressing well communicates to others that you are knowledgeable, powerful and competent. When choosing clothing, remember to dress for the occasion and your client's emotional comfort. Before any meeting with an important client, research his company's image, office environment and internal values.

2. Correct your posture.

If your work requires you to sit in front of a desk for most of the day, chances are your posture has suffered. Don't slouch when meeting with clients, customers or colleagues. Poor posture may make you appear insecure, lazy or disinterested. Try to make a conscious effort to roll your shoulders back and elongate your spine. Keep your head in a neutral position with your chin slightly raised.

3. Do your best and worry less.

Entrepreneurs who lack self-assurance often stress about what others might think about them. Negative self-talk can quickly make you feel as though others are evaluating every error and misstep you make. Focus on all the things you do well and hire other experts to take care of the rest.

Related:3路s to Communicate With Confidence

4. Focus on the future.

If you find yourself being caught up in the minutiae of daily business, remind yourself to think about your dreams for the future. If you take a few minutes to focus on your goals, you'll be able to refocus on what's most important to you and your business.

5.拥抱积极性。

We're bombarded with negativity all day, every day. To counteract the negative energy around you --from what's conveyed in the daily news to the comments of grumpy colleagues -- fill your mind with positive thoughts. Show gratitude for small acts of kindness and be appreciative of those around you. If you make it a habit to be positive and grateful, it will become second nature.

6. Let go of small mistakes.

Everyone makes mistakes so don't expect to be perfect or you'll drive yourself crazy. Try not to dwell on small errors. If you make a mistake with a client, don't obsess over what you might have done wrong. Instead, take responsibility. Apologize, fix the mistake as soon as possible and move forward.

7. Continue to grow and improve.

A small accomplishment can help boost your confidence, even if it's not entirely related to your business. Learn a new skill, take a class at a local university or read a book on a subject that interests you. If you'd like to excel at something specific such as playing golf or public speaking, invest in yourself and take lessons.

8. Schedule time to play.

If you put in 60 to 80 hours of work every week and never take time to rest, you'll eventually push yourself toward burnout and sheer exhaustion. Make sure you set aside time to do the things you love in life. Escort your child or dog to the park, take walks during your lunch break or participate in an exercise class at a local gym. If you invest time in your hobbies, friends and family, you'll feel rejuvenated and ready to conquer your next challenge.

9. Don't be afraid to ask for advice.

Whenever you find yourself in an epic struggle against self-doubt, call a trusted friend, advisor or colleague and get his or her best advice. Often an objective opinion will help you look at life differently, overcome your challenges and transform your attitude.

Related:'Polished, Poised, Prepared': Confidence Tips from Women Entrepreneurs

Wavy Line
Jacqueline Whitmore

Author, Business Etiquette Expert and Founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach

Jacqueline Whitmore is an etiquette expert and founder of theProtocol School of Palm Beachin Palm Beach, Fla. She is the author ofPoised for Success: Mastering the Four Qualities That Distinguish Outstanding Professionals(St. Martin's Press, 2011) andBusiness Class: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work(St. Martin's Press, 2005).

Editor's Pick

Related Topics

Business News

What Is a 'Lazy Girl Job'? New TikTok Trend Empowers Women to Work However They Want

The trend began as a way for women to find more free time during their days.

Business Process

The Strategy You Need to Make Sure Your Company Can Keep Up in Today's Business World

Discover a superior alternative to a traditional business strategy that prioritizes adaptability, innovation and speed in execution, explores its benefits for entrepreneurs, see real-world scenarios and learn core principles and rules to propel organizations forward with clarity, simplicity and action.

Thought Leaders

I Pitched 300 People a Day For 1 Year — and Learned This Impactful Entrepreneurial Lesson

After working myself to the bone pitching 300 people each day for one year, I came out of that experience as a new man — but surprisingly, an unhappier one. Here's what I learned.

Business Ideas

The Top 10 Home Business Ideas for 2023

Can't figure out which enterprise you should launch in 2023? Check out 10 stellar home business ideas to get inspiration.

Growing a Business

3 Solutions That Help Alleviate Everyday Pressures Small Business Owners Face

We live in a world with increasing pressures from stakeholders, constantly changing customer expectations and volatile financial conditions — which for many, especially business owners — can make it hard to create clear distinctions between professional and personal emotions.