C. Confidence
Confidence means projecting self-confidence and demonstrating composure and outward calm
through steady control over emotion. Confidence is important for leader/managers and teams. Confidence is the faith leader/managers place in their abilities to act properly in any situation, even under stress or with little information. Self-confidence grows from professional competence. The confidence of an effective leader is contagious and permeates the entire organization. Confident
leader/managers help associates control doubt while reducing team anxiety. Excessive confidence can be as detrimental as too little confidence. Both extremes impede learning and adaptability.
A leader/manager that projects confidence is an inspiration to associates. Associates will follow leader/managers that are comfortable with their own abilities but will question the leader who shows
doubt.
Displaying confidence and composure when things are not going well can be a challenge for anyone, but is important for the leader to lead others through a grave situation. Confidence is a key component of leader presence. A leader who shows hesitation in the face of setbacks can trigger a chain reaction among others. A leader who is over-confident in difficult situations may lack the proper degree of care or concern.
Leading with confidence requires a heightened self-awareness and ability to master emotions. Leaders need to develop the ability to remain confident no matter what the situation involves by maintaining a positive outlook when a situation becomes confusing or changes. Leader/managers should encourage others when they show signs of weakness.
It does not take long for associates to become suspicious of a leader who acts confident but does not have the competence to back it up. Having the appropriate levels of expertise is vital to prepare competent leader/managers who display confidence through their attitudes, actions, and words.
Leading with confidence means displaying self-control, composure, and positive attitudes. They are resilient. Confident leaders remain decisive after discovering a mistake. They act in the absence of guidance. They do not show discouragement when facing setbacks and remain positive when the
situation becomes confusing or changes.