Here’s a great question from a Daily Success Boost reader:

"My biggest challenge when it comes to handling interviews is trying to sound confident when answering some of the weird questions interviewers ask. I know my worth and what I can bring to the table, but I guess I'm not very good at bragging about myself. I've always been taught to show humility in everything I do. I know this may sound stupid, but I just clam up every time! What can I do to exude more confidence during my interviews without feeling stupid?"

First, let me assure you: your predicament is not stupid at all. Many of us were raised to be humble, never to brag about our achievements. That’s how decent people behave in most situations.

However, answering interview questions is one of the rare cases where it’s not only okay to talk about yourself and what you bring to the table, but it’s actually the right thing to do. In fact, it’s essential if you want to ace your interview.

Why is that?

Because the interviewer needs to know about your achievements to understand why you are the best candidate for the job.

Think about it this way:

Interviewers are already interested in you before you even walk through the door. They’ve seen your resume, read your cover letter, and they want to hear more about what you can do.

So, if you never talk about your accomplishments, you’re reducing your chances of getting hired. When interviewers review applicants later, they’ll recall highlights from the stories they heard. Without sharing your own story, they won’t have any memorable highlights to connect with you.

Here’s the key:

There’s a big difference between bragging and telling your story. Bragging is unqualified self-praise. On the other hand, sharing your story means recounting what happened, your role in the outcome, and recognizing the other factors that contributed to the success—not just your efforts alone.

It comes down to this:

Self-praise is generally off-putting, but telling your story in a compelling way is refreshing. It captivates listeners and helps them remember you.

How do you do this correctly?

Here are some ideas to keep you grounded yet confident.

1. Try “We” Statements When It Fits

If you were part of a team project, lean into the “we” statements. This is great because it highlights your contribution without feeling like all eyes are on you. Plus, it gives credit to the team effort, which most interviewers appreciate!

• Example: Instead of saying, “I managed a project that boosted revenue by 20%,” try, “My team and I worked together to manage a project that boosted revenue by 20%.”

This way, you’re still showing your role without taking all the credit.

2. Talk About What You Learned Along the Way

It’s easy to feel awkward listing your achievements, so make it more relatable by focusing on what you learned. Sharing what the experience taught you shows growth and humility—it also helps the interviewer see that you’re all about continuous improvement.

• Example: “Leading that project taught me a lot about balancing priorities and using data to make decisions. It was a big success, but it also helped me become a better leader.”

Now the conversation shifts from just the result to how you grew, making it feel more like a story than a brag.

3. Use Stories to Show Your Skills

Nothing feels as relatable as a good story. When you frame your achievements as part of a larger story, it’s less about “look at what I did” and more about “here’s how I helped solve this challenge.” You get to highlight your skills without sounding like you’re reading off a list.

• Example: “We were up against a tight deadline on a tough project. I streamlined our process by [specific action], which helped us deliver on time. This experience taught me how important it is to adapt quickly.”

Stories make it easier for the interviewer to picture you in action—plus, they’re just more interesting than a list of achievements!

4. Let the Numbers Speak for Themselves

When in doubt, let the facts do the talking. Specific numbers show your impact without needing extra fanfare, making it clear that you know your stuff without overselling it.

• Example: Instead of “I’m great at driving results,” you could say, “In my last role, I implemented a strategy that improved customer retention by 15% over six months.”

It’s simple and clear, and the numbers say it all.

5. Give a Shoutout to Mentors and Inspirations

Mentioning others who have helped you along the way shows that you’re grounded and appreciative. Plus, it makes your success feel more like part of a journey rather than just a single accomplishment.

• Example: “My previous manager gave me some great advice on managing priorities, which I used when I tackled [specific challenge]. That guidance helped me succeed in my role.”

This shows you’re open to learning and gives credit where it’s due, which says a lot about your character.

6. Remember: Body Language Talks, Too

Sometimes, the way we carry ourselves speaks louder than words. Eye contact, a good posture, and a smile can do wonders for how you come across. Plus, it’s a way to feel confident without even saying a word.

• Tip: Purposeful hand gestures (but not too many!) and a relaxed posture help you look confident and calm, which the interviewer will pick up on.

It’s estimated that up to 55% of communication is nonverbal, so your body language can do a lot of the talking for you!

7. Emphasize How You Fit with the Team

Instead of just saying what you can do, think about how your skills match the specific role or company values. It shows that you’re thoughtful about how you fit in, not just what you bring to the table.

• Example: “From what I understand about the role, my background in [relevant skill] would help me support the team in [specific responsibility]. I’m excited about contributing to [goal or value of the company].”

This tells the interviewer that you’ve thought about how you fit in, which shows maturity and consideration.

8. Be Real About Areas You Want to Grow In

Everyone has areas to improve, and showing that you’re aware of yours can actually boost your confidence in the interviewer’s eyes. It shows you’re self-aware and honest—qualities most employers value.

• Example: “I’m currently working on improving my [skill or area], and I’ve made some good progress by [specific action]. I’m excited to keep building on it in this role.”

Admitting this shows a willingness to grow, which is a sign of true confidence.

9. Let the Interviewer Lead When It Comes to Praise

If the interviewer compliments you or highlights a skill you’ve mentioned, it’s okay to accept it without elaborating too much.

• Example: “Thank you! I’m proud of that accomplishment, and I look forward to bringing that same dedication here.”

This way, you acknowledge the praise without feeling like you’re patting yourself on the back too much.

10. Focus on Why You Love What You Do

When you talk about your purpose or what drives you, it shows that your work is meaningful to you. This approach feels more genuine because it’s about passion and purpose, not just results.

• Example: “I’m passionate about [cause or field], and I love using my skills in [area] to make a difference. That’s what keeps me motivated to do my best.”

By focusing on purpose, you come across as dedicated and grounded, making your confidence seem authentic.

In Conclusion

Showing confidence in an interview doesn’t have to feel like you’re bragging. When you focus on sharing your story, acknowledging your growth, and highlighting how you fit with the company, you’ll come across as both confident and genuine. And remember, confidence is really about knowing your strengths and sharing them openly—you’ve got this!