How to Build Career Confidence and Lead with Impact: Lessons from Ivana Nikolik

Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong in a room full of decision-makers? Or wondered how to build career confidence when the odds seem stacked against you? In this episode of From a Woman to a Leader, I sat down with Ivana Nikolik, a global business leader recognized as one of Europe’s 40 Under 40. Her story is packed with career insights, leadership lessons, and real-life strategies you can use to level up your career.

From Ambition to Action: Ivana’s Career Journey

Ivana started her career as a young woman working for the Macedonian government, negotiating with international executives in a male-dominated environment. She faced skepticism, underestimation, and countless challenges—but instead of shrinking back, she took bold action.

💡 Key Takeaway: You don’t have to wait until you “feel ready.” Step into the room, even when you’re scared. Confidence comes from action, not perfection.

How to Build Career Confidence (Even When You Feel Out of Place)

In our conversation, Ivana shared how she built confidence despite feeling like an outsider:

👉 Prepare Relentlessly: Study harder, practice longer, and show up ready. Ivana shared how she would spend hours preparing for meetings—even when she wasn’t sure what to expect.

👉 Learn Continuously: Whether through formal education or personal growth, never stop learning. Ivana’s career was fueled by scholarships, certifications, and self-directed study.

💡 Key Takeaway: Confidence isn’t a trait—it’s a skill you build through preparation, learning, and experience.

Turning Setbacks into Career Fuel

Ivana also opened up about facing setbacks and self-doubt. She was often overlooked because of her age and gender, but she turned those challenges into fuel for her career growth.

💡 Key Takeaway: The only person who can limit you is yourself. Use rejection and doubt as motivation to push forward.

Why Continuous Learning is a Game-Changer

Throughout her career, Ivana never stopped learning. From earning multiple scholarships to completing leadership programs, she constantly expanded her skills. Even today, she’s learning about cutting-edge tech like AI and data science.

💡 Key Takeaway: Your knowledge and experience are your most valuable assets—invest in them continuously.

Ready to Be Inspired? Listen Now!

Ivana’s journey is a powerful reminder that career success isn’t about luck—it’s about courage, continuous learning, and relentless action. If you’re ready to break barriers, build confidence, and lead with impact, you won’t want to miss this episode.

🎧 Listen Now: https://limorbergman.com/podcast/

What’s one way you’ve built career confidence in your journey? Share your story below—I’d love to hear from you!

About Ivana