Pageantry is not just about modeling and looking beautiful. Once a contestant reaches “Teen” and “Miss” categories, she cannot just rely on those aspects. Pageant interviews are game changers in the pageant world that determine which contestant is more deserving of the crown. The judges choose the title holder by her intelligence, speech, attire, and personality.

Dressing correctly for a pageant interview is crucial. One must have hair done nicely and out of her face with fresh, light makeup. The contestant is to wear pearl earrings along with a neat manicure with nude or French-tipped polish. Her suit must be modest and business appropriate. Pantyhose are worn with taupe heels. Appropriate dress is a key factor in interview. How does one stay calm when she has other competitors? One must never compare herself to other contestants because the judges are looking for different things! Be confident and just a little cocky. The competitor should act as if the crown is already on her head to ensure confidence and a strong interview!

The actual interview is intricate and has to be executed well to stand out from her fellow competitors. Beforehand, a pageant form or “bio” is filled out by the contestant to give the judges background, offering foundation for the interview. The form may include information on personal accomplishments and/ or hobbies. A tip is to tell the truth because if the judge asks the contestant something on her bio that she knows nothing about, then they will sense that she is lying and will have points docked from her score. Time in the interview ranges from three to five minutes; it is very important to leave a lasting impression on the judges.

To start, first, one must have her shoulders back with a smile on her face. Walk up to the judges. Stand on the side of the chair in a “T stance” and wait to be seated. This shows respect to the judges. One should then introduce herself. When asked to be seated, she must sit down with her ankles crossed, her back off of the chair, and her hands rested in her lap. She should make eye contact with each judge when speaking loudly and clearly, making sure to restate the question and answering in complete sentences. Never use hand gestures when speaking. When talking on a subject, avoid one word answers. Instead, elaborate. Do not make the judge feel as if they are begging you to talk to them. Be genuine and have a hint of humor. Whether one is in a town or festival pageant, it is likely that she will be asked history on the subject. Know the answers to these history questions to show that effort was put into wanting to become the queen. The judges may ask personal questions such as, “Which candidate is better suited for President and why?” To answer this, be mindful of the other judges’ views; start off answering by saying, “In my opinion...” to avoid sounding arrogant. If one was a past title holder, do not mention it in interview or state that you participate in pageants often. When the timer sounds, thank the judges for their time, stand up, turn, and walk out of the room.

Pageant interviews are 70% of a contestant’s score. It is important to be prepared for an interview if one wants to come out with the crown. Having the perfect attire, ability to speak to the judges, knowledge of history, and a spunky personality is key. Following this guide to pageant interviews ensures a win. If one is tentative of the process of a great pageant interview, she will have a new crown in her trophy cabinet.