I'm worried I look incompetent at work, what can I do?
crlody
on
Nov 8, 2014
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Don't be afraid to reach out for help. Ask your supervisor for training opportunities, whether inside or outside your company. Ask your supervisor to evaluate your competence and give you some suggestions on which areas to improve your work performance - it might sound counter-intuitive but most supervisors will look at this effort on your part as a personal strength and asset to the company. There are also plenty of books and other resources online and at the library to help you improve your work performance or confidence/self-esteem at work. Try asking someone at work who you view as successful for advice. Keep a work journal and write about challenging situations, how you handled them, what the outcome was, and whether you would do something differently in the future - this will give you a concrete guide to reference when you're feeling unsure.
Guruu
on
Nov 11, 2016
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Sometimes people have different skill set than what is required for a job. They accept the job because of the beed but this leads to friction and demotivation for the person. Evaluate you skill sets and validate the same with jobs requirement. If required have an open discussion with your superior and have his feedback and take corrective measures. Good luck.
HelpingOthers111
on
Oct 4, 2014
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You just have to work as hard as you can and people would never judge you for that. Who knows? Others might have the same exact fear as you.
Melil94
on
Oct 20, 2016
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Be the best that you can be given your emotional/mental state. Do not be afraid to be open about problems you may be having.
SamuelPeak
on
Oct 28, 2017
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Often worrying about looking incompetent or incapable, doubting yourself, or being unsure at all is exactly what confirms your suspicions to those around you. We all have our doubts, but what makes a leader, and a good worker is acting sure, and trusting yourself even when the odds might seem against you. Believe in yourself, and know your limitations and strengths, take your time if you have to, but do it right. Understand that every mistake makes you better, and that you can do what you need to, if you doubt yourself, you will prove your doubts correct. We’re not perfect, but if you know and can do your stuff, that’s all that’s asked of you. No one can ask more than your best, and that’s all that can be asked of you, so give it always.
LimpyT
on
Nov 22, 2017
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Its depends why you feel incompetent, if its your own insecurities and lack of self belief then work on complimenting yourself for a job well done. if your skill set is lacking, learn more about the job/industry to promote a greater confidence.
ThreePinner
on
Feb 9, 2018
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As a start, you might remind yourself that lots of us feel that way in our jobs. In some cases, that's what the job requires. It may also be the case that your concern for your competence is a sign of your determination to do a good job - it may just go hand-in-hand with a strong work ethic.
Then you might think back to a mentor or someone you respect in your field. Imagine what they would do in a particular situation. You'll merge the confidence they symbolize for you into your own insight and skills.
Eventually you won't worry about being incompetent because you'll see that your field, like all others, is ultimately flawed and silly and not nearly as impressive as you thought when you began, and that's all ok. We are all just doing our best and there's a humor and a poignant humanity in that.
Samalyn
on
Jan 18, 2016
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Set goals for yourself! No one can tell you that you are incapable if you are setting progressive goals that show how you've gained in skill! Best of wishes xoxo
Flaree
on
Oct 4, 2014
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Try your best and if you feel as if you can do better then learn more, take extra courses or ask your manager for extra help.
Ingrid9
on
Nov 9, 2014
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Perhaps ask somebody in management if there are any training opportunities. For example, maybe there is a workshop you could attend, or some resources you could read.
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