Early in the COVID period, when much of my executive coaching shifted online, I worked with an Asian consultant whose confidence was challenged by English as a second language. He was a managing consultant pursuing promotion to principal and needed to demonstrate visible growth in this area to move forward.

After several months of working together, with a strong focus on client presentations, he arrived at a coaching session energized by a recent experience. He shared that during a client presentation of findings, something changed. In prior situations, the partner on the project often interrupted and took over delivery. This time, the partner smiled, listened, and encouraged him to continue.

Shortly afterward, the consultant learned that he was ready for promotion to principal. From that point forward, momentum followed.

The lesson is clear. Confidence centers on claiming expertise and delivering it clearly under pressure. While the consultant continues to navigate language challenges, his readiness and presence continue to move the needle of his success. This is one of several examples of client improvement in delivery skills. Olympic athletes also demonstrate this pattern regularly. Performance does not require flawlessness. Confidence signals preparedness for the challenge ahead.

We demonstrate these concepts in Examples of Confidence at Work.