Tip No.8:
Confidence VS Arrogance - Where's the Line in Interviews?
Over the many placements Iβve supported over the years, Iβve seen first-hand how fine the line can be between coming across as confidentβ¦ or tipping into arrogance. Confidence gets you remembered. Arrogance gets you rejected. So whereβs the line? Here are my top tips:
1. Showcase achievements without overdoing it
- Share specifics - numbers, results, and impact. βI delivered a project that saved Β£2mβ sounds far stronger than βIβm amazing at delivery.β
- Use βweβ as well as βIβ when talking about successes. Show that you recognise the team effort while still owning your contribution.
- Avoid listing every win βpick the most relevant and impactful examples for that role.
2. Nail your tone, language, and listening balance
- Be clear, concise, and professional - but avoid jargon overload.
- Match your tone to the conversation; if the interviewer is more relaxed, lean into that.
- Donβt dominate the room. Confident people listen as much as they talk. Pause, let the question land, and answer thoughtfully.
3. Show self-awareness
- Be honest about development areas. It shows maturity and growth, not weakness.
- Use reflection language: βOne thing I learned from that project wasβ¦β
- Humility + confidence is a powerful mix. It shows youβre human, approachable, and someone people want to work with.
4. Body language matters too
- Sit tall, keep eye contact, and smile where natural.
- Avoid crossing arms or looking distracted - open body language signals confidence without words.
The key? Confidence is about clarity, presence, and authenticity. Arrogance is when confidence tips into ego.
