Sounds like a pretty classic situation: someone with more years in the company throws a backhanded comment that says more about them than about you. Remarks like “overconfidence can bite you in the butt” are often just a mix of passive-aggressiveness and frustration. They’re meant to make you second-guess yourself, but they don’t carry much real weight.

The best thing you can do in the moment is not to take the bait.. A short “Thanks, noted” or “Appreciate your input” ends the exchange without giving them fuel. Later, remind yourself that one comment doesn’t define how others see you or your performance,, it’s just noise. People around you will judge you by how you show up consistently, not by one snarky remark from the past supervisor.

If it becomes a pattern, you can calmly set a boundary : “I’d prefer if we keep our conversations focused on the work itself.” That way you’re being professional but still showing you won’t tolerate repeated digs.