"In my mid-year review in my last role, my manager pushed me to be more vocal in departmental meetings. She liked hearing my opinion on things, but she was right that I was hesitant to speak up in front of the entire team. In order to make progress, I began sharing some ideas with her prior to meetings to build my confidence; this helped me feel more comfortable speaking up in meetings. I also asked my manager to hold me accountable in sharing once or twice per meeting, so that I could continue to build my confidence in my voice and my ideas. After gaining some positive feedback from others in meetings, I felt much more at ease freely sharing my thoughts and ideas with the group."

The best employees are able to listen to critical feedback and respond appropriately in order to grow professionally. Everyone has areas of weakness, and employers who value their team will have the tough, but necessary conversations to push their people to develop.