JobseekerJobseekers are being held back from finding work because of a lack of confidence about talking about themselves during interviews, according to new research.

A survey of 1,500 employers and jobseekers by the Gumtree website found a problem with British "modesty".

More than nine out of 10 people looking for a job said they lacked confidence talking about themselves, while employers often felt people undersold their abilities.

Younger workers are most likely to play down their skills during a job interview, especially trying for work in the public sector, the media or the NHS.

Career expert John Lees said: "The Gumtree research shows that the British stiff upper lip lives on and is holding back jobseekers in their search for a job.

"As we've seen this week with the latest unemployment statistics, finding employment is still a huge struggle for many people - but, with some careful practice, jobseekers really can raise their game and shine through in the traditionally intimidating interview process."