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I'm worried I look incompetent at work, what can I do?

Profile: niamh333
niamh333 on Mar 19, 2017
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Just keep doing your best! You would not have been hired if you could not do your job competently and if you were being incompetent I am positive someone would have told you, and hopefully offered you support to do the job well. Try not to worry about being incompetent as if you give your mind over to worrying then your work may start to suffer. I know it's not easy but you got this :)
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Profile: thesecretkeeper
thesecretkeeper on Mar 22, 2017
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Become knowledgeable about all areas of your field, make yourself heard, and above all try your best. You will get noticed :)
Profile: ams96
ams96 on Apr 22, 2017
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Do your best to not compare yourself to your co-workers, and try not to think you look incompetent. Focus on your work. Do it to the best of your ability. Ask a ton of questions - because asking questions doesn't mean you're incompetent, it's something (most) bosses like - it shows you have an interest in your work.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on May 27, 2017
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I completely understand where you are coming from! I feel that way a lot of the time and would struggle with certain aspects of my job, but it's likely that you're not the only one who feels that way at your work. We all bring different skills and weaknesses to the workplace (why else would they have hired such a great person as you if they didn't think you were great?) Some of us may be stronger in certain aspects of our job, and weaker in others. It's very important to remain humble, however, and to admit our personal weaknesses. I don't know about your workplace culture (maybe you're close to your coworkers or your boss, or maybe you're not), but I feel lucky in that my coworkers are highly collaborative and supportive of each other. You may want to ask your boss for more training opportunities or, if you speak with your coworkers outside of work, if they can help you practice certain skills. It's great that you are taking action to improve yourself, and I wish you the best of luck!
Profile: HelpfulArina
HelpfulArina on Jul 1, 2017
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I believe if you do your best, that is enough. Here are a few other tips: 1. Keep a list of things you wish to achieve at work. When you have reached those daily goals or tasks, mark down your work. This will help you get a sense of your competence. 2. Understand your worry. Where is it from? Why do you feel this way? Could it be because of peer pressure? If so, refer back to #1. Also, remember that focusing on your own work and skills is more important than the opinions of others. 3. Talk with your boss. Ask for feedback and constructive criticism actively. Not only may this give you good tips, your relationship with your coworkers and superiors may improve. 4. Believe in yourself. You can do this!
Profile: Kate
Kate on Jul 26, 2017
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Talking to you supervisor and asking for feedback on your work is always an option. If you feel like you aren't performing to the best of your ability, ask to schedule a time to sit down. Ask them for feedback on what you're doing well as well as where you can improve. A good supervisor or manager should take the time to help you grow professionally and feel valued in your position.
Profile: MissCarla
MissCarla on Jul 30, 2017
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Have you discussed with your boss that you feel incompetent? Has anyone put this in your head? How are your progress reports and such? If your fears are unfounded then I think you could benefit from getting some reassurance from your boss and colleagues. If your fears are founded then you could work on your performance :)
Profile: Huey1089
Huey1089 on Aug 24, 2017
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Hi! You may first check with yourself and understand why you feel this way. You may want to ask yourself these questions: 1. Am I just starting out with my job? What are the expectations I need to fulfill in my current role? 2. What impression do I leave my boss and colleagues? How is this relevant in my work? Sometimes, it may be just that you see yourself as incompetent because you have not yet found a sense of achievement in what you are doing. Don't worry though. With a bit of self-introspection, I'm sure you'll find fulfillment. Wishing you the best! :-)
Profile: Thanksa1ots
Thanksa1ots on Oct 7, 2017
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Ask for feedback. Review your notes or reflect on what you've learned. Find a "de facto" mentor who can give you unwritten advice. Let them know you want to add value, and ask what can you do to be effective in your position.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Dec 3, 2017
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If you're doing the necessary work and you're trying your best, it's important that you find the inner confidence and know that your incompetency is but a figment of your imagination.
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