The May 2014 issue of The Atlantic offers the insightful article, “Closing the Confidence Gap,” by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman, which aptly describes the difference in the natural confidence levels of women and men. The authors maintain that men’s generally high level of confidence is an advantage, and women’s generally lower level of confidence is limiting for them.

In my experience in business and leadership consulting and coaching, I have seen this dynamic very clearly. I have often said that I wish I had a confidence pill I could offer many of the women (and some men) with whom I work, as I know how much they have to offer their companies.

I know that a little confidence boost would make their contributions more visible, and that their advancement would definitely improve the results of their companies.

Take action

Because I am well aware that this lesser confidence is holding back many talented women and men, some months ago I wrote a short article, How To Increase Our Inner-Confidence. I received a great deal of appreciative feedback.

There is no magic confidence pill. But like with so many goals and aspirations, we can begin to move ahead with small actions and mindsets. We can definitely feel better about ourselves with these simple actions:

• being well groomed

• dressing neatly

• being prepared

• contributing ideas

• always being 15 minutes early

• calling people by their names

• taking a genuine interest in others

• getting others to talk about themselves

• smiling

• standing tall

• walking purposefully

• exercising

• eating well

• assuring that our spirituality is a priority getting

• adequate rest

• staying in touch with family and friends, including old friends

• contributing to our communities

• encouraging and helping others, and

• definitely being in a positive frame of mind and a source of positive, and only positive, energy.

Thinking positively

I know, these may seem like the basics, and they are. Yet, often progress towards what we what to achieve begins with the basics, even what might be considered baby steps. Even baby steps change our mind set as we are positively moving forward.

How can leadership help? If we acknowledge that women generally have a lower level of self-confidence, and accept the premise that a problem discussed is a problem half solved, we can certainly be part of the solution. We can get together for conversations, ask how can we help one another, and be supportive and encouraging.

It is amazing how “Hey, you are good at that, nice work.” is a boost to one’s confidence.

Cathy Becker, a former colleague, an HR professional, and a great friend recently said to me, “Leadership is how we make others feel about themselves.” That is a good description—with lots of insight.

Will these actions and principles guarantee confidence to succeed in business? They will sure help, a lot! And the more we can help one another, women and men, to gain the self-confidence we deserve, the stronger our cultures and the better the financial results of our companies.