In an interview, there’s a subtle dance between being sure of your skills and coming across as arrogant, writes Liam Horan, Career Coach, Sli Nua Careers.

In my experience, the fear of appearing arrogant causes many candidates to downplay their skills far too much. This is unfortunate because, in reality, I have rarely come across truly arrogant people – individuals whose sense of their own worth, and the welcome they have for themselves, is off-putting.

There is no arrogance in making it clear that you know your skills. If you’re an excellent researcher, tell them. If you’re not, don’t pretend you are. If you are a great writer, tell them that too.

In an interview, they need to know your skills – and they also need to know that you know your skills so that you can put them to good use in the job.

The stereotypical post-match interview with the player who says “ah sure, look, I’m just delighted to be in the team” might be fine for public appearances of that nature, after she has scored the winning goal and the crowd is chanting her name, but it won’t cut much ice in an interview.

You’re good at something. Let them know. In interviews, you’ve got to chant your own name.

Liam Horan is a Career Coach with Sli Nua Careers in Ballinrobe.

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