Confidence Wins Over Smarts

Frustrated because you are not taken seriously? Other people get opportunities that you don't? Maybe they are just speaking up more than you. In an article published in Scientific American Mind (September/October 2009) by Robert Goodier, new research shows that leaders are not necessarily more intelligent than others, but rather they simply speak up more often. People believe that those who speak up more often in a group are the smartest even though, in reality, they have the same intelligence as others in the group.

How does this relate to performance? We've all seen the person who, when performing or auditioning, does not exude confidence. While we may feel for that person's discomfort, we do tend to perceive that person as not being very capable. On the other hand, the person who confidently presents his performance, regardless of its true quality, is often judged to have been "better" or more successful.

What if you are not that naturally confident, outgoing animal to which I refer. What if, instead, you are NOT sure of yourself -- you are innately quiet and unassuming. This is where one's acting chops have to come in to play. Behave AS IF you are confident. That's number one!

Secondly, no one can hope to step on stage with a sense of empowerment if he or she is not completely prepared. Do your homework! Learn everything you can about the material you are performing. Plan every moment of your execution of the piece. If you don't know how to sing or how to act, take lessons! Practice, practice, practice. And, by all means, practice behaving in a confident manner.

Other interesting research (same issue of Scientific American Mind) shows that the way we feel emotions isn't just restricted to our brain. There are parts of our bodies that help and reinforce the feelings we're having. If we act and smile in a confident manner, we are more likely to actually feel that way.

So let's get started. Ready? Smile, step forward, and speak up!