You may be familiar with the term "confidence gap," described as the difference in the level of confidence between men and women. While most of us feel less confident about how well we've performed compared to the expectations we put on ourselves, data suggests that this gap is wider for women than for men. There are some who don't believe it exists and others who attribute it more to bias than internalized beliefs. So, let's explore confidence.

In this session, we'll explore this gap and the perceptions behind it. While boosting confidence, creating a sense of agency, and tackling the myth of authenticity aren't just challenges for women, we'll look at these challenges through the gender lens. In this session, we will look at factors that can undermine confidence, as well as perceptions and norms - in the workplace and society - that reinforce these gaps.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the confidence gap


• Evaluate how bias and workplace norms can undermine confidence


• List strategies to develop a sense of agency