By: Sophia Tumminia
Starting a new job or advancing in your career can be both exciting and intimidating. Whether you’re in PR, marketing, or any fast-paced industry, self-doubt often creeps in. The key to overcoming these challenges? Taking action, learning from experience and surrounding yourself with the right support system.
Through my experience working on high-profile campaigns, I’ve learned valuable lessons about not only professional but also personal confidence and growth – lessons that apply to any industry and benefit not just individuals but the clients and teams they support.
Overcoming Self-Doubt
Stepping into a new role often feels like diving into the deep end. I remember my first day working on the McDonald’s account, wondering if I’d ever fully grasp all the moving parts. Was I ready for this? Would I be able to keep up and add value to an already well-established team?
I quickly learned that confidence isn’t something you either have or you don’t – it’s built through action. Every challenge I tackled, from navigating complex projects to landing major media placements, reinforced my ability to succeed. But it wasn’t just about the big wins; small, everyday actions – like speaking up in meetings, asking questions and following through on commitments – compounded over time. The more I pushed through uncertainty, the more I realized that growth happens when you lean into discomfort rather than shy away from it.
The Power of Taking Ownership and Building Relationships
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been collaborating with local business owners to share their stories and celebrate their successes. The impact of strong storytelling and strategic communication goes beyond just media placements – it strengthens relationships and builds trust.
When clients see that your work brings real value, they want to come back for more. That’s when you know you’re making a difference. Taking ownership of projects, following through and delivering results have been key in proving my value – not just to clients, but to myself. And when we as professionals show up with confidence and clarity, it directly benefits those we work with, reinforcing trust and driving success for everyone involved.
Learning Through Mentorship and Collaboration
Confidence doesn’t develop in isolation – it grows through mentorship and teamwork. Early in my (short) career, I have been fortunate to work alongside experienced professionals who have shared their knowledge and encouraged me to take on big challenges. Their unwavering trust in me has pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, whether through planning high-profile events or assisting in client pitches.
I’ve learned that a strong team isn’t just about shared goals; it’s about shared growth. The best teams create an environment where people feel supported, challenged and empowered to contribute. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and challenge you is one of the best ways to accelerate personal and professional growth. And when teams grow together, clients reap the benefits of that shared expertise and confidence.
Embracing Growth and Moving Forward
Growth isn’t always linear, but every challenge presents an opportunity to build resilience and confidence. Looking ahead, I know there will always be new obstacles to face, but I now welcome them as opportunities to learn and improve.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, confidence isn’t about knowing all the answers – it’s about trusting yourself to figure them out. Take the leap, own your growth and watch how far you can go.
