#192 Is Confidence Overrated? with Susana Serrano Davey https://open.spotify.com/episode/3AhymCRjlMx44VZFkFNdUu In this latest episode, Kevin Appleby is joined by Susana Serrano-Davey, a renowned speaker and expert in personal development, to delve into the pervasive issue of confidence challenges that many individuals face in both personal and professional settings. This episode is particularly insightful as it addresses the unique hurdles that women often encounter regarding confidence. Susana brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, offering practical strategies to combat symptoms of low confidence, such as self-doubt and negative self-talk. She emphasizes the critical role that body language, voice modulation, and choice of words play in projecting confidence and credibility, especially in virtual communication environments which are becoming increasingly prevalent. Throughout their discussion, Kevin and Susana share actionable tips for improving one's virtual communication skills. They highlight the significance of maintaining eye contact, even through a camera, and using appropriate gestures to reinforce messages. Additionally, they discuss techniques for recomposing emails to ensure they convey confidence and professionalism. Key topics covered include: Confidence challenges, particularly among women in the workplace Susana Serrano-Davey's personal experiences with lacking confidence and overcoming it Strategies for dealing with moments of low confidence, such as addressing negative self-talk and body language Improving confidence in virtual meetings through preparation and self-reflection Building confidence and self-awareness through tools like journaling and strengths-based assessments The importance of self-acceptance and a balanced self-assessment in overcoming confidence challenges https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrfgot--il4&t=15s Links Susana Serrano-Davey on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:00 - 0:11: Introduction to GrowCFO 0:11 - 0:41: Welcome and introduction of Susanna Serrano-Davey 0:41 - 2:21: Susanna's personal example about confidence 2:21 - 3:29: Discussion on the perception of confidence 3:29 - 4:57: Confidence challenges in both men and women 4:57 - 7:28: Dealing with lack of confidence and being brave 7:28 - 8:06: Mention of Katherine Clark and "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway" 8:06 - 9:07: Symptoms of lack of confidence 9:07 - 11:01: Language and body language as symptoms 11:01 - 12:19: Addressing symptoms through body language and voice 12:19 - 13:26: Online meetings and confidence tips 13:26 - 14:52: Using podcasting to improve speaking confidence 14:52 - 15:56: Preparation and improvisation 15:56 - 17:08: Neuroplasticity and positive thinking 17:08 - 19:00: Personal reflection and balanced confidence Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars.  Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net