Forget your polished CV. Forget your LinkedIn profile. The thing that really decides your next opportunity isn’t on paper. It’s the story people tell about you when you’re not in the room. That story (fair or not) is your reputation. And it walks in before you do.

Many leaders delay or avoid difficult situations altogether, fearing what might happen. This lack of certainty can build into a monster that eats away at your confidence and authority. Here are 12 critical questions to ask to help you build your confidence.