Technical skills alone no longer guarantee success in job interviews.
Arrogance is the biggest hiring red flag, says Sarah Walker, head of Cisco UK & Ireland.
Confidence is essential, but ego can instantly undermine even a strong résumé.
Walker has interviewed candidates across all levels, from graduates to senior executives.
She values positive energy, curiosity, and engagement over self-importance.
Arrogance signals poor self-awareness and resistance to growth.
Personality and attitude often matter more than pedigree, especially for early-career roles.
Technical skills can be taught; enthusiasm and willingness to learn cannot.
Potential and adaptability often outweigh current capability in fast-changing industries.
Career growth depends on continuous improvement, not being a “finished product.”
Past achievements are no guarantee of future relevance.
Senior leaders must focus on what they will do next, not past success.
Humility is essential at all levels, including top leadership roles.
Learning never stops, regardless of experience or title.
Cisco leadership also values emotional intelligence alongside intellectual ability.
Academic qualifications alone are not reliable indicators of performance.
The ideal candidate blends confidence with humility and skills with curiosity.
Arrogance suggests complacency and resistance to feedback, limiting career progress.
Ultimately, how candidates behave, collaborate, and grow matters more than their résumé.