When you're unsure of your expertise before a client meeting, preparation is key to navigating the conversation confidently. Start by reviewing the client’s industry, their needs, and any relevant data. Acknowledge areas where you’re less familiar, but focus on the value you bring. Asking thoughtful, open-ended questions can guide the conversation and give you more insight into their concerns. Remember, it’s okay not to have all the answers immediately—offer to follow up with well-researched solutions. Confidence comes from preparation and the ability to listen, adapt, and respond with genuine insights.

If you're uncertain about your experience before a client meeting, the key is to focus on active listening and asking insightful questions. Begin by framing the conversation around the client’s needs and challenges, rather than your expertise. This allows you to gather information and tailor your responses thoughtfully. Acknowledge your strengths, but don’t hesitate to admit areas where you may need more context, offering to research or follow up afterward. Confidence comes from being adaptable, open to learning, and focusing on problem-solving rather than feeling pressured to have all the answers immediately.

Para navegar com confiança em uma reunião com o cliente, mesmo quando surgir a dúvida, você pode: Preparar-se bem: Revise todos os detalhes relevantes e antecipe perguntas para se sentir mais seguro no assunto. Focar na escuta ativa: Ouça atentamente o cliente e adapte suas respostas de acordo com suas necessidades, mostrando compreensão e flexibilidade. Reforce suas realizações: Lembre-se de seus sucessos anteriores e use-os como base para transmitir confiança. Aceite o que não sabe: Não tenha medo de dizer que vai buscar mais informações. A honestidade constrói confiança.

I would not say that I doubt my expertise but, that I accept that I cannot and will not have all the answers all of the time. Try something like this to set the expectation that you are not a human product manual: "Good day, my name is <Name>. I'm here to talk to you about <subject/product>. I'll answer everything I can during our call now and then for anything I can't answer, I'll leverage our team of experts to get you those answers as soon as possible"

I used to get nervous before new business pitches - which was well-rehearsed and done as a team. Whether my team won the work or not, the feedback was always that I made a compelling presentation. So over the years I learned something beyond preparing well. Today, when I'm speaking in front of an audience I'm passionate about the topic, and the psychology and narrative approach that helps people get unstuck! I still get nervous but know my passion around being purposeful at work runs through me like a stick of rock! Navigating conversations armed with that expertise but also commitment dilutes my doubt. When you feel doubts getting louder, consider what you know, and how others have valued that about you to quieten the negative chatter.