5 Simple Ways to Show Up Confidently at Work Events

Showing up confidently isn’t just about job titles or how many years of experience you have. It’s about feeling grounded, prepared, and present, especially in spaces that weren’t always built for you.

Whether I’m keynoting international conferences, attending tech summits, or popping into local business events, I’ve learned that confidence is a skill – not a personality trait. And in a world where AI and automation are reshaping industries, your energy, presence, and preparation matter more than ever.

Last week, I spoke at the WeAreTechWomen conference, sharing my insights on squiggly careers and how I was able to build the LMF NETWORK (Like Minded Females), be a speaker and navigate the worlds of tech, entrepreneurship, and community-building. That room was filled with brilliant, ambitious women, but I know firsthand how intimidating those spaces can feel. And the good news is you can build your confidence muscle with practice.

So, here are five ways I personally show up with confidence at events, conferences, and corporate spaces, even when it feels overwhelming:

1. Dopamine dress to boost confidence

What I wear affects how I feel. I lean into colours, styles, and textures that spark joy and make me feel powerful. From bold blazers to bright lipsticks, it’s not about fitting in, it’s about showing up as myself. Fashion, for me, is a form of confidence. This year, I’m experimenting with new styles to feel more connected to how I show up.

Top Tip: Choose an item of clothing that makes you feel like your best self, whether it’s a bold accessory or a colour that lifts your energy. It’s all about creating a visual reflection of your inner confidence.

2. Research the event before I get there

Preparation is confidence. I always look up the agenda, key speakers, and discussion points. Having context means I can ask relevant questions, know who to network with, and contribute thoughtfully to conversations.

Top Tip: Take note of one key insight or question you want to bring to the table during the event. It gives you a talking point and ensures you’re ready to engage.

3. Show up early to get a feel of the space

Arriving early gives me a chance to settle in, get a feel for the space, and find quiet corners if I need to take a break (a must-do for an ADHD brain). It also helps with those pre-event nerves and allows time for intentional, low-pressure networking.

Top Tip: Arriving early also allows you to familiarise yourself with the layout, so you can navigate the space with ease, avoiding any awkward moments of confusion.

4. Prep your questions or elevator pitch

Whether I’m speaking or attending, I prepare talking points and questions in advance. I’ll even rewatch past panel discussions or speaker clips to understand the tone. Practising out loud, even to myself, helps me feel more collected and sharp in real time.

Top Tip: Rehearse your elevator pitch in front of a mirror or record yourself to make sure it feels natural and authentic when delivering it in real-time.

5. Use the 3-2-1 rule for business networking

I stick to this simple rule: aim for 3 quality conversations, 2 meaningful connections, and 1 thoughtful follow-up after the event. Networking isn’t about meeting as many people as possible, it’s all about building genuine relationships. The real impact comes in the follow-up, where you continue the conversation and turn it into something worthwhile.

Top Tip: After the event, take 5 minutes to send a personalised message to the connections you made, referencing something specific from your conversation. It makes the follow-up more genuine and memorable.

Key Takeaway

Confidence is a mindset, and showing up with intention, presence, and preparation helps you own the room, even if you're still figuring it all out.

As the saying goes:

"Confidence isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present."

So What?

In a world that’s speeding up thanks to tech, authenticity is your best friend. Let your personality, preparation, and purpose shine through. Because no one can do you like you.

So, whether you're attending your first conference or your fiftieth, these practices help you walk in with clarity, connect with confidence, and stand out in meaningful ways. Fashion your mindset, prep with purpose, and don’t underestimate the power of being present.

Sonya Barlow is an award-winning entrepreneur, presenter and author with over 100K followers. She hosts her self-titled YouTube show "The Sonya Barlow Show", authored the business book "Unprepared to Entrepreneur" and runs a business inclusion consultancy and networking app the "LMF Network". You can work with Sonya for campaigns, content and conversation. Connect via email - Hello@SonyaBarlow.Co.Uk.

Career Advice, Confidence, networking, Events & Workshops, Career Developmentsonya barlow2 October 2025Sonya Barlow, Career Confidence, Work Events, Business Networking, Public Speaking, Leadership, Professional Growth, Personal Branding, Event Preparation, Women in Tech