There are few better feelings than being good at your job. There’s a sense of achievement and self-belief that comes from knowing you’re smashing it – especially if it’s also being recognised and rewarded by the people around you.

That being said, there are certain scenarios in which your confidence can take a serious knock, especially if you’re naturally more introverted. You might go for a big promotion and not get it or the opportunity you thought might result in some praise from your boss goes unnoticed, and you have to alter your expectations.

“Being an introvert and climbing the career ladder can often feel paradoxical,” explains Sarah Manley, an author and introvert career coach (an introvert herself, she helps fellow introverts to unleash their unique strengths). “If we don’t show up, speak up and ‘perform’ as expected, we, at best, become known for being the quiet one; at worst, we’re the one who has nothing to contribute, is disengaged or awkward to approach. Naturally, this leads to our self-confidence waning as we become the ones who are not asked their opinions, the ones people forget about, the ones people talk over.”

Been knocked back at work? 3 ways to rebuild your career confidence