Blogs

Confidence Gap

The Confidence Gap: Why Capable Professionals Still Struggle to Speak with Impact

May 26, 20252 min read

You’re smart. You’re experienced. You’re respected in your field. So why does your heart race every time you’re asked to introduce yourself, speak up in a meeting, or present in front of a group?

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I see this confidence gap every day—brilliant professionals who can lead a team, close a deal, or deliver results… but freeze when the spotlight turns on them.

What’s happening here?

It’s Not About Skill. It’s About Safety.

Most people assume confidence is about mastering a skill. But public speaking, introductions, and storytelling aren’t just skills—they’re acts of visibility. When you speak in front of others, especially about yourself or your business, you risk judgment. You risk being misunderstood. You risk rejection.

And unless you’ve trained your nervous system and mindset to handle that visibility, your body may default to: hide, shrink, play it safe.

The Story Behind the Silence

Let me share a story.

A client came to me who was routinely asked by her boss to present at team meetings. Each time, she refused. Not because she lacked expertise—but because of something that happened over 20 years ago.

In 9th grade, she gave an oral report in geography class and was laughed at by her classmates. One moment of public embarrassment. That story, even as an adult, became the lens she saw all speaking opportunities through. “If I speak up, I’ll be humiliated.”

In our work together, we rewrote that narrative. She replaced self-doubt with self-trust, practiced her message out loud, and finally accepted the opportunity to speak. The applause from her team at the end? That was just the beginning.

What’s Holding You Back?

Maybe it’s a moment like that from your past. Maybe it’s not knowing what to say or how to say it. Maybe you overthink it so much that you talk yourself out of trying.

Whatever the reason, I want you to know:

🟢 You’re not broken.
🟢 You’re not alone.
🟢 And you can build confidence one rep at a time.

Confidence Comes From Practice—Not Perfection

One of the biggest myths in communication is that you have to be “ready” before you speak. But the truth is, speaking is what gets you ready.

Confidence grows through:

  • Repetition

  • Feedback

  • Reframing self-talk

  • Practicing in a safe space

That’s Why I Created the Confident Communicator Collective

It’s a supportive monthly space where you can practice your 60-second intro, try out a new story, rehearse your opening lines, or test a call to action. You’ll get kind, helpful feedback from me and the community.

This is where confidence is built—not in isolation, but in repetition with support.

The Confidence Gap Is Real—But It’s Bridgeable

You don’t need to have it all figured out before you show up. You just need a place to try.

Doors to the Confident Communicator Collective open June 1. Click here to enroll.

public speaking anxietyprofessional speaking confidenceovercome fear of speaking60 second intro practicehow to improve presentation skillsspeaking skills for professionalsbusiness networking confidenceconfident communicator tips
blog author image

Leslie C Fiorenzo

Leslie helps entrepreneurs get over the fear of public speaking, camera shyness, and networking jitters.

Back to Blog

Copyright © 2025 Business Speaking Solutions All Rights Reserved