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Starting a new job is always exciting—it comes with expectations and opportunities for professional growth. However, it can also bring anxiety and self-doubt. It is common to ask yourself:
"Will I be able to handle this?"
According to organizational psychologist Renata Burgo, feeling insecure is natural, even for experienced professionals. “We all experience that feeling when we step out of our comfort zone and face something unknown,” she explains.
Insecurity is part of the adjustment process, but it is crucial not to let it become an obstacle. Reminding yourself why you were chosen for the role and what you bring to the table can help boost your confidence. Career development expert Simone Bortoletto advises recognizing your value and experience: “If you are there, it is because you have the necessary skills, and people believe in you.”
Experts suggest that after three months in a job, adaptation should be underway. During this time, patience and certain habits can help strengthen self-confidence. Here are some key tips:
1. Understand the Company Culture and gain Confidence at Work
Familiarizing yourself with the company’s values and internal dynamics is one of the first steps to building confidence, according to Burgo. Organizational culture acts as an “invisible guide” that defines expected employee behavior. Understanding it will help you adapt and align with team expectations. Observing how colleagues interact and engaging in conversations can give you valuable insights into how the company operates.
"Active listening and observation will help you grasp the workplace culture. Ask questions, show interest, and engage in discussions about the company," Burgo recommends.
2. Ask for Help and Stay Open to Learning
It is natural to have doubts when starting a new job. Do not be afraid to ask for help—this shows humility and a willingness to learn. “Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but of openness. No one enjoys working with someone who pretends to know everything,” Bortoletto explains.
If you are assigned a task you are unfamiliar with, honesty is the best approach. “If you do not know something, say so. The key is to seek support and learn,” says Burgo. Making mistakes is part of the process; the important thing is to see them as learning opportunities rather than confidence-breakers.
3. Seek Feedback and Offer Help
During your first months, your supervisors will likely be assessing your performance. Instead of waiting for their feedback, take the initiative to ask for it. “Confidence grows when you take charge. Do not wait for information—seek it,” advises Burgo.
Additionally, go beyond your assigned tasks. Offering help to colleagues—without overloading yourself—demonstrates commitment and helps build a positive reputation within the team.
4. Take Initiative, but Stay Humble
It is natural to want to stand out in a new job, but it is important to avoid coming across as arrogant. Some people try to prove their worth by suggesting changes or pointing out problems without fully understanding the company’s context. This can backfire.
"Proposing improvements is valuable, but it is essential to listen to those with more experience and collaborate with them," Bortoletto advises.
If you have ideas to improve a process, discuss them with colleagues first and present them as a team. This shows respect for others’ opinions and demonstrates humility—both of which build trust and strengthen your position within the team.
Confidence at work is built step by step through learning, collaboration, and self-awareness. Keep growing and believing in your potential.
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