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Do you ever feel like you don’t measure up, even though your track record says otherwise? You’re not alone. Many highly competent candidates underestimate their abilities, especially during job interviews. It’s a classic example of the Dunning-Kruger effect—where experts undervalue their skills because they assume "everyone can do this."

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If this sounds like you, it’s time to change the narrative. Here’s how you can showcase your true value and stop underselling yourself in job interviews.

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1. Recognise the Value of Your Skills

Highly skilled candidates often think their abilities are “nothing special.” This mindset comes from working at a high level for so long that your expertise feels ordinary. But what’s routine to you might be extraordinary to others.

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How to Reframe It:

Reflect on your key achievements and think about the impact they’ve had. Instead of dismissing them, frame them as evidence of your value.

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Example:

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Before: “I helped optimise a process, but it wasn’t a big deal.”

After: “I streamlined the process and reduced errors by 25%, saving the company time and resources.”

2. Prepare Specific Examples

When you doubt yourself, it’s easy to downplay your accomplishments in interviews. Combat this by preparing concrete examples that demonstrate your competence.

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How to Apply It:

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to outline your stories. Focus on measurable results to show the impact of your work.

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Example:

“In my previous role, I noticed inefficiencies in our tax filing system (Situation). I proposed and implemented a new review process (Task). By automating manual steps (Action), we reduced filing errors by 20% and met deadlines more consistently (Result).”

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3. Practice Confident Language

Your choice of words can make or break how you’re perceived. Competent candidates often hedge their responses, using phrases like “I think” or “I guess,” which can unintentionally undermine their authority.

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How to Apply It:

Replace hesitant language with confident statements. Instead of “I was involved in the project,” say, “I led the project.” Own your contributions.

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Example:

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Before: “I guess I contributed to the team’s success.”

After: “I played a key role in achieving the team’s goals by leading X and contributing Y.”

4. Embrace Your Unique Expertise

You might feel like others have similar skills, but no one else has your exact combination of experiences, perspectives, and achievements. Focus on what makes you unique.

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How to Apply It:

Highlight areas where you’ve made a distinctive impact, such as tackling unusual challenges or excelling in specialised tasks.

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Example:

“My background in both corporate tax advisory and compliance gives me a unique perspective to handle complex client needs while ensuring regulatory accuracy.”

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5. Reframe Self-Doubt as a Strength

If you’re underestimating your abilities, it’s often because you hold yourself to a high standard. While this can feel like a burden, it’s also a strength that drives excellence.

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How to Apply It:

Reframe your self-doubt as a sign that you care deeply about delivering quality work. Share this mindset with your interviewer to highlight your commitment.

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Example:

“I hold myself to a high standard because I believe in delivering exceptional results. This mindset pushes me to always go above and beyond for my clients.”

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6. Get Comfortable with Self-Promotion

For many competent candidates, talking about themselves feels awkward. But job interviews aren’t the time for modesty—they’re an opportunity to make your case.

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How to Apply It:

Think of self-promotion as storytelling, not bragging. Focus on how your skills have solved problems, helped teams, or driven results.

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7. Ask for Feedback to Boost Your Confidence

Sometimes, you need an outside perspective to truly see your strengths. Mentors, colleagues, or trusted peers can help you identify accomplishments you may have overlooked.

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How to Apply It:

Before your interview, ask a former manager or colleague to share examples of how your work made an impact. Use their feedback to prepare stronger responses.

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Example:

If your manager praised your leadership during a challenging project, incorporate this into your answer: “My manager noted that my ability to keep the team focused during tight deadlines was instrumental in our success.”

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Final Thoughts

Highly competent candidates often downplay their abilities, but job interviews are the time to own your expertise. By recognising your value, using confident language, and preparing strong examples, you can showcase your true potential without feeling like you’re overselling yourself.

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Remember, the skills you think are ordinary might just be extraordinary to the employer sitting across from you.

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You’ve earned your place—now it’s time to claim it. What’s one accomplishment you’ll highlight in your next interview?​