Regardless of background, there are things we can all do to boost our self-confidence in the workplace. Research shows that the more confident we are, the greater our influence over our peers. Even if we don’t feel it, acting in a certain way might just encourage others to do the same, creating an upward spiral of recognition and achievement. Fake it till you make it never looked so good.

1. Find your energy giver

“When you have those very normal moments of doubt, go and chat to that special person who tells you that you are brilliant,” says Costello. “There’s nothing like someone else boosting you to boost your confidence.”

2. Practise self-advocacy

“The voice inside our head can often tell us we’re not capable,” says Costello, “but if you express your ideas and communicate your ambitions more regularly, then that negative self-talk will gradually turn itself into confidence.”

3. File your wins

“Keep a digital or physical bank of work you’re proud of and any recognition you’ve received,” says Costello. “Revisiting this when you need a confidence boost can remind you of your capability – and reinforce your value in your place of work.”

4. Embrace Challenge

“Step out of your comfort zone by volunteering for things that push your limits,” Costello suggests. “Even though it feels completely unnatural, tackling a challenge will help your mental resilience and boost self-confidence over time. And next time it will be less scary.”

5. Lean into your strengths

“We tend to ponder on our weaknesses, which means we sometimes lose sight of what we’re good at,” says Costello. “But if you make an effort to acknowledge the success of your strengths, and show how your strengths can benefit others, then it will reinforce positive habits as well as your own inner confidence.”

Over a quarter of women hide their background in a job interview to avoid social stigma, according to research