How to overcome insecurity in the workplace
Learn what insecurity in the workplace is, the most common examples, and how to build confidence in your professional environment. We're here to help!
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What is insecurity in the workplace?
Insecurity in the workplace can occur at different stages of life and can have a variety of causes. But how can we define it? As the name suggests, it occurs in a professional setting and stems from feelings of inadequacy or insecurity. Essentially, insecurity in the workplace is related to the fear or perceived inability to perform effectively in one's job.
Sometimes starting a new role, tackling an unfamiliar task or interacting with new colleagues can trigger feelings of self-doubt or a sense of being out of control. While these fluctuations in confidence often subside over time, in some cases insecurity can become a vicious cycle, leading to reduced performance and productivity. It can even affect our mood, which in turn affects the whole working environment.
How does insecurity in the workplace manifest itself?
Understanding insecurity in the workplace is easier with real-life examples. Receiving a harsh review, receiving low marks in a training course, experiencing a difficult interaction with colleagues, failing to meet targets or struggling to deal with setbacks can all contribute to feelings of insecurity at work.
While insecurity in the workplace can sometimes be linked to objective factors – such as a lack of specific skills or limited experience in a particular role – it can also stem from subjective factors, including irrational fears that, if left unaddressed, can have a lasting impact on mental wellbeing.
Another sign of insecurity at work is a strong need for external validation. Insecure people often seek approval from those around them, be they colleagues or superiors. They may also downplay their achievements, attributing success to luck or the help of others rather than to their own abilities.
Key strategies for overcoming insecurity in the workplace
There are a number of strategies and approaches that can be used to address insecurity in the workplace:
- Motivation is key. Employees struggling with insecurity often need an extra boost of confidence. Encouraging them to see change as an opportunity for professional and personal growth can go a long way. Sometimes a simple motivational talk is all it takes to lift the spirits of someone facing self-doubt at work.
- Building self-esteem is essential. Insecure people tend to undervalue themselves, so it is important to reinforce their self-worth. A simple way to do this is to remind them of the skills that led to them being hired, or to express gratitude for their contributions in a public setting.
- Training can be the answer. Insecurity in the workplace often stems from feeling underprepared or lacking the necessary skills for a particular job. In such cases, offering relevant training can provide the knowledge and confidence needed to perform effectively.
- Prioritising tasks and setting realistic goals is key. Feeling overwhelmed by the workload can sometimes lead to insecurity. To combat this, it's helpful to prioritise goals and set achievable targets that allow for steady progress.
- Be prepared for setbacks. Unforeseen challenges may arise, leading to negative self-perceptions. When this happens, it's important to recognise your strengths and your ability to adapt, show resilience and remain flexible.
- Choose the right company. While we may not have control over who our colleagues are, we naturally gravitate towards those with whom we feel a stronger connection or sense of support. As much as possible, it's beneficial to surround ourselves with people who uplift and encourage us.
Overcoming insecurity in the workplace is essential for effective performance and overall wellbeing in a professional environment. It's worth remembering that these feelings are often temporary and tend to subside as employees feel more understood, supported and motivated by their organisation. However, if the problem persists, seeking professional help can be a valuable step towards regaining confidence and self-esteem.
