I just haven’t got the confidence anymore…

I haven't got the confidence anymore is something I hear almost every week from clients. “I know I could do more… I just don’t feel confident enough.”

What’s interesting is that this isn’t just a feeling, it's backed by research. Psychologist Albert Bandura introduced the concept of self-efficacy, which is essentially our belief in our ability to succeed in specific situations. Studies consistently show that people with higher self-efficacy are more likely to apply for jobs, perform better in interviews, and persist when things get tough.

In fact, research in organisational psychology has found that confidence often predicts success more strongly than actual skill level. That means many capable people hold themselves back not because they lack ability, but because they doubt it.

Over time, this can create a cycle: You hesitate → you avoid opportunities → your confidence dips further → you hesitate even more.

The good news? Confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t have. It’s something you can rebuild.

Why confidence matters in your career

Whether you’re:

• Thinking about changing jobs

• Updating your CV or application

• Preparing for an interview

  
  

Confidence shapes how you present yourself. It influences the words you choose, the examples you share, and even how you come across to employers.

A lack of confidence can make you undersell your experience. Too much pressure can make interviews feel overwhelming. But the right level of confidence helps you communicate your value clearly and calmly.

How can I boost my confidence?

You don’t need a complete transformation small, practical steps can make a big difference:

1. Focus on evidence, not emotion Write down 5–10 things you’ve achieved at work

specific examples, not general statements. Confidence grows from facts, not feelings.

2. Reframe your inner voice Instead of “I’m not good at interviews,” try:“ I haven’t had much practice recently. ”That small shift turns a fixed belief into something you can improve.

3. Prepare out loud Don’t just think about answers—say them. Practising out loud helps you feel more natural and reduces nerves.

4. Take small steps Apply for one role. Update one section of your CV. Book one conversation. Action builds confidence faster than overthinking ever will.

5. Remember: Employers expect nerves Interviewers don’t expect perfection. They expect authenticity and preparation.

A final thought

If you’ve been feeling like your confidence has disappeared, it hasn't, it's just been knocked.

With the right support and a few practical strategies, it can come back quicker than you think.

And often, that’s the first step towards a new opportunity.

Ready to build your confidence?

If this resonates with you, you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

I work with people at all stages of their careers to rebuild confidence, clarify direction, and prepare for applications and interviews in a practical, supportive way.

If you’re unsure whether I’m the right fit, feel free to check out my reviews. They'll give you a sense of how I work and the results my clients achieve.

You can get in touch for an informal chat at jillvalentinecareers@gmail.com, or visit my website at careercoachingsheffield.co.uk to find out more.