Activity: "confident" vs "cocky"

Quiz
When you are being confident, it is important not to appear over-confident, as this might appear as
cockiness. In this page you will see that many employers put a premium on a job candidate being
confident, but not being cocky.

One of the two elements below is an expression of confidence, while the other one would be
considered cocky. See the cocky one.

A cocky person:

[ ] Feels self-assured due to an appreciation of their own abilities or qualities

[x] Argues that they are right because being wrong hurts their credibility

Now check the cocky one.

Question 1
Why should we hire you?

A. Well my world class education at The University of Hong Kong speaks for itself and I have
impressive work experience in your industry. I am definitely qualified for the job.

B. I am confident that my sound education background at The University of Hong Kong and
extensive work experience in the industry will allow me to make strong contributions to your
company.

Question 2
What is your biggest accomplishment?

A. I single-handedly overhauled the in-house training programme and doubled sales. I didnt need
anyones assistance.

B. I initiated and contributed to the reforms of the in-house training programme, which led to
substantial improvement in sales.

Question 3
What are your strengths?

A. I am a great team player and natural leader, which is what you should be looking for in a
candidate for this job.

B. I have been told that I have the ability to motivate and lead teams well, which should be quite
valuable for this job.

Question 4
Asking follow-up questions:

A. I would like to know what the next step of the application process is?

B. When will you give me a response?