Mastering Nervousness at Work

Science-based insights and actionable steps to control your nerves

Feeling Nervous? Don't Worry!

  • Nervousness is common in various work situations
  • Starting a new job or meeting a new boss
  • Facing an important meeting or presenting to a big-name client
  • Believing that others can see your nerves is an illusion

The Illusion of Transparency

  • The tendency to believe others can see our internal states
  • Nervous speakers overestimate the visibility of their nerves
  • Study shows participants rated themselves as more nervous than perceived by the audience
  • Your internal feeling may be obvious to you, but not to others

People Are Terrible Mind Readers

  • Most people are bad at gauging someone else's nervousness or confidence
  • Judges in a study couldn't accurately differentiate truthfulness based on speaker's nerves
  • Participants included college students, police officers, psychiatrists, and judges
  • It's easier to hide your thoughts and feelings than you think

Action Steps to Overcome Nervousness

  • Remember, your nervousness is less noticeable than you think
  • Few people pay close attention to your internal states
  • Practice the first few sentences or statements to ensure confidence
  • Rehearse until the right words come naturally
  • Keep your hands empty or hold onto something solid to avoid visible nervous fidgeting

Future Insights and Methodology

  • Continued learning for effective audience presentations and meeting contributions
  • Expect more insights and methods in future videos
  • Continuous improvement and skill development
  • Building confidence and success in professional settings