In Part One of this series, we talked about the importance of confidence in business. In the final part we will discuss gaining the confidence you need.

If the problem is that you do not know what you do not know, then stop trying to fake it and start learning! You need an educational plan that makes sure you are constantly learning. This plan should be multi-faceted and include attending live classes, reading books and articles, on-line courses and more. Do not concentrate on one aspect of your business. For example, if you are a real estate agent you would have to learn technical details such as how to properly price a listing and also become an expert in sales
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If your problem is projecting your knowledge, you need to practice. Role-playing is an excellent method of practicing conversations with prospects. Go out and join organizations and participate in their activities. Here are two possibilities:

• Join a networking group through the chamber of commerce or BNI. Volunteer to present information to the group or an individual who wants to learn.
• Join Toastmasters, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping their members become public speakers. It is very inexpensive and most areas have local chapters and you can obtain more information on their website, toastmasters.com.

Here is even better news. If you use the methods we have outlined above, they all will lead to networking opportunities and more business. This is why you should favor live classes over on-line classes when possible. Put yourself in situations in which you are surrounded by others and can network among these groups. Force yourself to engage in conversations.

The key to this networking? Listen! Those who have confidence do not feel the need to talk about their knowledge constantly and they are continuously learning from others. Confidence is a major key to success that may be missing from your arsenal. And if you are not sure if it is missing, ask others.