When you’re really nervous for a job interview, it can work against you. You might not realize it, but your nervousness can actually make you overcompensate and appear arrogant, which can hurt your first impression.
Confidence is important, but there’s a fine line between self-assurance and coming across as dismissive or overly self-important. Interviewers want to see that you believe in your abilities, but they also value humility, authenticity, and a willingness to learn. Striking the right balance can help you build rapport and demonstrate that you’re a strong candidate and a great team player.
Instead of risking looking overconfident during interviews, apply these tips.
Talk About Your Mentors
If you’re worried you’ll sound like you’re bragging during an interview, take some of the focus off you by talking about your mentors. Show them that you’re open to new perspectives and respect the expertise of others. This will take some of the pressure off you and highlight that you’re willing to learn from others (aka you’re probably not a know-it-all).
You can also balance confidence with humility by sharing stories of challenges you’ve faced and how you overcame them with the help of a team. Acknowledge the contributions of colleagues or mentors who guided you along the way, emphasizing that success is rarely achieved alone.
Using phrases like “I was fortunate to…” or “I learned a lot from…” follows our “Experience + Learn = Grow” method for answering behavioral interview questions. These phrases also frame your achievements in a way that feels collaborative rather than self-congratulatory, helping you avoid appearing overconfident and cocky.
Ask Great Questions
One sign of looking arrogant is talking too much about yourself. Yes, you’re expected to talk about yourself during interviews, but the best interviews are two-way conversations between the interviewee and the interviewer.
By asking great questions, you appear more interested and genuinely excited about what they have to say. It also helps establish a natural rapport and makes the conversation feel more collaborative rather than one-sided. So, pepper in some insightful questions about the role, company, or interviewer—and don’t forget to be mindful of your tone and body language!
Find Your Self-Confidence
The truth is, if you’re overcompensating, you’re trying to make up for that lack of self-confidence. And that lack of confidence contributes to that overwhelming nervousness and anxiety you’re feeling. So, find ways to increase your self-confidence. Whether it’s showcasing your strengths or passion for the industry, find a way to boost your self-confidence.
One of the best ways to boost your self-confidence is through preparation: research the company, practice your responses, and have examples ready that highlight your skills and expertise. Remember, confidence comes from knowing your value and presenting it naturally!
Don’t let “accidental arrogance” kill an opportunity. Use the tips above to nail that first impression and avoid appearing overconfident in your next job interview!
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