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 Get more guts at workHere's how to kick your career into overdriveFrom CareerBuilder.com Editor's Note: CNN.com has a business partnership with CareerBuilder.com, which serves as the exclusive provider of job listings and services to CNN.com. Do you want a new job, but don't think you're qualified to do anything else but you are currently doing? Deep inside, do you believe you deserve a promotion, but don't have the gumption to bring it up to your boss? If this strikes a nerve, then read on to learn how to steel your backbone, show more moxie and kick your career into overdrive. 1. Be prepared: "Preparation is the best confidence booster," says Rena Lewis, Senior Vice President for Lee Hecht Harrison job search, consulting and career management firm. Whether you're going into a job interview or your annual review, preparation is key to creating a good impression and properly showcasing your capabilities. "The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel," Lewis says. 2. Strategize: Do you have an important meeting to attend where you know key people will be present whom you want to impress? You can take some of the pressure off by thinking ahead of how to respond to questions and issues that may arise, Lewis says. If it's an interview youíre preparing for, Lewis suggests rehearsing and doing some role-playing with a friend. 3. Confidence is as confidence does: "The better you feel about yourself, the more self-assured you will be. So stay upbeat and focused," says Lewis. Commend yourself when you do a good job. Don't be overly critical or whiny. Too much negativity will surely send you into a tailspin. 4. Get some school spirit: Nothing makes you feel more capable than learning something new. Whether it's obtaining a professional certificate or a full degree, continued education can be a powerful confidence booster. 5. Treat every day as an interview: Always keep an updated resume that lists your most recent accomplishments. Whether you're looking for a job or looking to increase your salary, having a list of achievements on hand gives you the ammunition you need to attain your goals. 6. Knowledge is power: If it's a salary increase you want, Lewis suggests doing research to find out what other companies are paying and what youíre worth. Having this vital information can give you that extra bit of nerve you need to ask for a raise. 7. Clothes can make the man (or woman): "When you know you look good, you stand, walk and think differently," says Lewis. Your image plays an important part in your career advancement. So pay close attention to your clothes, countenance and posture. 8. Remember the Golden Rule: Network: Not only is networking key to making your next great career move, it's also a good way to boost your confidence. Looking for a new position, either in or outside your company, is less daunting when you know the people involved. © Copyright CareerBuilder.com 2005. All rights reserved. The information contained in this article may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority
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